The Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals will be allowed to have 6,000 fans at two home games this season.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced Saturday that the teams have been granted a variance for a “two-game trial” on a state requirement limiting 1,500 people at outdoor gatherings.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield and wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. talk during an NFL football scrimmage at FirstEnergy Stadium Photo: Joshua Gunter/Cleveland.com via AP
The variance allows for no more than 1,500 fans in each side of the stadium. Fans will be required to wear masks throughout the games.
Cleveland will be permitted to have fans for its opener on Thursday, Sept. 17 against Cincinnati and rookie quarterback Joe Burrow, the No. 1 overall pick in this year’s draft. The Browns can also have fans on Sept. 27 against Washington.
The Bengals home dates are Oct. 4 against Jacksonville and Oct. 25 against the Browns.
Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon (28) who didn’t dress runs off the field with team after an NFL football team scrimmage Photo: AP Photo Bryan Woolston
“This year will certainly be different, but both the Browns and the Bengals have worked exceedingly hard and have made extensive preparations to welcome a limited number of fans to their stadiums safely,” DeWine said. “These very thorough plans and safety precautions warrant a two-game trial to try and accommodate fans, at reduced capacities with social distancing and masks.”