NFL Commissioner Goodell expects full stadiums for 2021 season

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expects games to be played this upcoming season in front of full crowds.

Goodell made the announcement Wednesday after a two-day meeting with team owners.

"All of us in the NFL want to see every one of our fans back," said Goodell, according to ESPN. "Football is simply not the same without fans, and we expect to have full stadiums in the upcoming season."

Goodell also emphasized the importance of vaccinations and encouraged every member of the NFL to get vaccinated.

His announcement came amid many NFL stadiums remaining under COVID-19 restrictions in their states. However, most, if not all, are expected to ease restrictions by the start of the season in September.

The NFL also recently said there would be an additional game for each team added to its schedule, so teams will now play 17 games but one less preseason contest.

Last season was essentially played without fans in stadiums. However, the Super Bowl was played in Florida, where COVID-19 restrictions have been more relaxed compared to several other states around the country. It was attended by about 22,000 people, including health care workers and other first responders.