NFL outlines virtual Draft dress code as prospects warned against political statements

The NFL has set out a strict dress code for its virtual Draft later this week, warning players not to use the spectacle to make political statements.

Glitz and glamour usually go hand in hand with the NFL Draft, with college stars decked out in their finest attire as they walk the red carpet before making the step into professional football.

However, the coronavirus outbreak has seen the planned Las Vegas event cancelled. Instead, all 32 franchises will make their selections remotely and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell will announce them from his home in New York.

Top prospects will also play a role in the coverage but the guidelines set out in a memo to players this weekend outlined what clothing they may and may not be seen wearing on screen.

The memo, obtained by Pro Football Talk, detailed that there should be no third-party logos, no explicit language, or racial, religious, or ethnic slurs.

Players cannot be seen wearing a brand logo that does not belong to one of the NFL’s official licensed partners.

Also not tolerated will be any clothing referencing alcohol, gambling, tobacco products (including e-cigarettes), obscene, pornographic (or escort services), violent (including firearms or other weapons), or sexual imagery.

Players will also have to make sure any backdrop is sanitised of products, brands or logos not approved by the NFL.

In order to help with this effort, the league has shipped a ‘welcome kit’ of NFL approved products to all potential top draft picks.

Additional reporting by Reuters.