The NFL originally introduced modified IR-return rules last year as part of its Coronavirus guidelines, but it notified its clubs on Tuesday that they will remain unchanged heading into the 2021 season. This means that the New England Patriots and the rest of the league will again be able to bring unlimited players back from the injured reserve list this season.
The NFL’s player personnel department sent a four-page memo to the 32 organizations, but the main points are as follows:
Unlimited IR-return spots: As was the case last season, teams will be allowed to return as many players as they want (or can) from injured reserve.