The annual NFL owners meetings are taking place his week, albeit virtually, and it isn't just the 17-game regular season being discussed.
According to NFL Media's Tom Pelissero, the league has informed teams they can begin Phase 1 of OTAs on April 19. Players are allowed to work out at the facility in small groups, like they have been.
Phase 1 "consists of the first two weeks of the program with activities limited to strength and conditioning and physical rehabilitation only," per the NFL.
The report adds the NFL and the NFLPA are still discussing virtual vs. in-person meetings and then on-field work. There is hope for practices this spring.
If no deal on the 2021 offseason is agreed upon between the NFL/NFLPA, normal CBA provisions would apply, meaning players would need to show up to earn bonuses in their contracts.
All offseason programs were held virtually last offseason, so this could be a sign that this year will be at least somewhat different. This would be good news for the Patriots and their coaching staff following all the new additions in free agency.