The Atlanta Falcons aren't expecting to have fans attend home games to start the 2020 season. Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Falcons to play first two 2020 home games without fans

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 8/17/20

The Atlanta Falcons aren't expecting to have fans attend home games to start the 2020 season.

Atlanta announced Monday that both the Falcons and Atlanta United of Major League Soccer, who both play at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, will not be allowing fans to attend games through the end of September because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Our home games at @MBStadium will be played without fans through September.

DETAILS: https://t.co/umUG1awF4M
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) August 17, 2020

This means that the Falcons' home opener against the Seattle Seahawks on Sept. 13 and their tilt with the Chicago Bears on Sept. 27 will be played in an empty stadium.

Attendance for home games later in the season will be determined at a later date.

Many teams around the NFL have announced similar policies due to coronavirus concerns. The Green Bay Packers also will play their first two home games without fans and the New England Patriots announced that capacity will be at 20 percent for the 2020 campaign.

The Las Vegas Raiders, who are set to play at the brand new Allegiant Stadium, also won't be allowing fans for their inaugural season after moving from Oakland.

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