DENVER – The Broncos’ season opener against the Tennessee Titans will be played without fans, with hopes to possibly bring in some fans over the course of the season, the team announced Friday.
The season opener against the Titans is scheduled for Monday Night Football on Monday, Sept. 14 at 8:10 p.m. in Denver. The Broncos said the decision to play without fans was made in concert with the state.
"We are grateful for the loyalty and enthusiasm that Broncos fans have shown this year—despite such challenging circumstances—but this is the responsible thing to do right now for our community,” the team said in a statement.
“Our organization remains hopeful that we can host a limited number of fans on a gradually increasing basis beginning early this season. Taking a careful, measured approach with attendance will allow us to evaluate and adjust all COVID-19 safety enhancements before moving forward,” the team added.
The Broncos said it is working closely with the state to determine the next steps for the season and that it hopes to be able to bring fans back at some point this season – possibly week three against the Buccaneers.
The Broncos have outlined safety plans that include hundreds of hand sanitizer stations throughout Empower Field at Mile High, an upgraded HVAC system and touchless technology for bathrooms.
The Broncos are the latest team to announce no fans for the first weeks of the season. Las Vegas and Washington have announced they will not have fans at games for the entire season.
