Yesterday college football players made it known publically that they wanted to take the field this season despite any challenges that COVID-19 poses.
Clemson quarterback, Trevor Lawrence, tweeted last night that players are more at risk of getting the virus at home than at school. Lawrence said that social distancing measures wouldn't be as effective in some communities and the medical centers and expenses would be a burden placed on the family if a player were to contract the virus. Lawrence says having a season incentivizes, "players being safe and taking all of the right precautions to try and avoid contracting COVID because the season/teammates safety is on the line."
After Lawrence spoke out it inspired others to make their opinion known, Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields, Alabama running back Najee Harris and Auburn quarterback Bo Nix all used the hashtag #WeWantToPlay.
This year's number one overall draft pick, Joe Burrow tweeted saying he feels for the college athletes, "If this were happening a year ago I would probably be looking for a job right now."
University of Arkansas' athletic director was the first to publically display his opinion on the subject. Hunter Yurachek supports the athletes in their decision to push for a season. Michigan football coach, Jim Harbaugh released a statement this morning agreeing with the players and ended with the hashtag #WeWantToCoach.
The demands of the players, if a season does happen throughout a pandemic are established procedures and guidelines to protect from COVID-19 and the opportunity to opt-out of the season. The players want guaranteed eligibility whether they choose to play or not and the creation of a college football players' association with representatives from all Power 5 conferences.
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