(CNN)The NFL is preparing to kick off its 102nd season on Thursday, and despite a host of headlines around football's elder statesmen and the game's newly emerging stars, the league will once again play under the shadow of the Covid-19 pandemic amidst growing public concern about the Delta variant.

"Our challenge is right now -- we are in a major surge," said NFL Chief Medical Officer Allen Sills during a recent media call. "It is no secret. ... what the impact of the Delta variant is having."