Eagles join growing list of teams to skip voluntary workouts

The Eagles join 18 other teams in skipping voluntary workouts, including the New England Patriots, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Baltimore Ravens. 

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continues to be the main reason why players are opting out. A majority of teams have cited concerns over a lack of "adequate protocols" to return safely.

NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith said it's in the players' best interest to sit out voluntary workouts this offseason.

The NFL sent out a memo on Wednesday setting a three-phase schedule for a nine-week offseason program. Although voluntary workouts aren't mandatory, the league made sure to inform players that minicamp is mandatory.