When NFL football returns after current restrictions -- imposed in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic -- have been eased, it is unlikely that the stands will see the return of crowds. Networks will cover their absence with crowd noises and virtual fans, according to Fox Sports announcer Joe Buck.
In an interview on SiriusXM show Radio Andy, Buck noted how "difficult" bringing back football will be before suggesting, "I think Fox and the networks have to put crowd noise under us to make it as normal a... experience at home." When asked to confirm if he believes that will be the case, Buck stated, "It's pretty much a done deal." He then added, "I think whoever is gonna be at that control is gonna have to be really good at their job and be realistic with how a crowd would react, depending on what just happened on the field."
Further, he said, "They're looking at ways to put virtual fans in the stands, so when you see a wide shot it looks like the stadium's jam-packed when in fact it will be empty." It should be noted that similar methods have been used in a variety of shows.
The NFL plans to open its season in September, with contingencies for ticket refunds.