Jon Gruden, Mike Mayock won’t be together for NFL draft

It’s a strange time for us all as we adapt to coronavirus lockdowns.

For NFL decision makers, the upcoming draft will be a time of unprecedented adaptation.

We knew this was coming. Still, the details of this “fully virtual” draft are jarring. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, the NFL is adjusting to mandates of social distancing and sheltering in place.

Therefore, every NFL decision maker, team and league personnel and the draft prospects will be separated, each working solely from their own homes. The April 23-25 draft will still be televised, however, so for the viewer, the experience won’t be much different and the focus will still be on the selections.

But for the people making the picks, it will be wildly unique as usually every NFL draft “war room” is a chaotic, busy place. Now, everyone is on their own.

Raiders’ coach Jon Gruden and general manager Mike Mayock will each be at their own homes and not working side by side. Will it be a detriment?

No, I don’t think so.

It’s going to be challenging and there might be some glitches here and there, but all 32 teams will be facing those same challenges and glitches. However, there will be heavy reliance on Zoom meetings and phone calls.

Meticulous organization and being prepared to adjust will be key. Those — along with being cool under pressure — are hallmarks of Mayock, so I think he will be able to help make this strange draft environment as smooth as possible.