The NFL is sticking to its schedule to hold the 2to hold the 2020 NFL Draft on April 23-25, despite push back from general managers, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. As the league begins to develop its plan for how the NFL Draft will be held, it’s also reportedly working to use the event to raise money for COVID-19 relief efforts.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the NFL is currently engaged in discussions that would incorporate raising money for charity to help increase relief funds. While the league currently doesn’t have a set plan in place, it’s expected to unveil its contributions and ideas in the weeks to come.

NFL owners have stepped up nearly every day to announce incredible donations to their local communities. Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan pledged $1 million on Tuesday, joining Arizona Cardinals ($1 million) and the Cleveland Browns’ owners pledged $1.5 million to local relief efforts.

Carolina Panthers owner David A. Tepper donated $2.65 million to aid the community and multiple organizations. Meanwhile, Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank pledged $5.4 million to support Georgia and Montana during the crisis.

NFL players have also stepped up with donations. Baker Mayfield, Adrian Peterson, Brandin Cooks and Deshaun Watson have each donated money to help those most impacted by the COVID-pandemic.

It’s great to see the NFL will be using its biggest offseason event to raise more funds for those in need. While the league will certainly draw criticism for its plan to still hold the draft, even without fans, this is a positive step to show they care about people across the country.

According to the latest information from Johns Hopkins University, more than 55,000 people in the United States have tested positive for COVID-19 as of Wednesday morning.

— YARD BARKER