The NFL’s annual owners meeting, scheduled to begin later this month in West Palm Beach, Florida, was canceled by the league office Thursday.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell notified the clubs, including the Falcons, that “after careful consideration and consultation with medical experts, the NFL’s annual meeting scheduled for March 29-April 1 has been canceled,” according to a statement released by the league.

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At the annual meeting, the league normally considers rule changes and operating issues, and a plan to improve the Rooney Rule and the league’s hiring practices were topics to discuss.

“There will be full consideration and votes on any open football issues, including playing rules, bylaws, and resolutions, as well as other business matters that were on the agenda for the Annual Meeting, at the spring meeting scheduled for May 19-20,” according to the statement. “Most of the first day will be dedicated to football-related issues. Head coaches and general managers will participate in the meeting.”

The league said it wanted to protect the health of team employees, league employees and the public while attempting to maintain essential business operations.

“We will continue to closely monitor developments, consult with leading experts, and be prepared to make any changes necessary as circumstances warrant,” according to the league.

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