New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced Tuesday morning that professional sports teams in the state may return to training and even competition "if their leagues choose to move in that direction."

Governor Murphy added that his office has been engaged in constant discussion with teams about necessary protocols to protect the health and safety of players, coaches and personnel.

For the Giants, it is a step closer to reopening on a limited basis the Quest Diagnostics Training Center, located in East Rutherford, N.J. The team's facility has been closed since mid-March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Per the NFL criteria that Commissioner Roger Goodell sent to teams on May 15, clubs are allowed to reopen provided they do so under "governing state and local regulations, are in compliance with additional public health requirements in their jurisdiction, and have implemented the protocols" put in place by the league to ensure the safety of all employees.

Under the current phase, the NFL is limiting personnel at team facilities. Coaches and most players are not permitted to return at this point. The only players allowed in team facilities are those who are rehabbing under the direction of the team's athletic training staff.

The Giants released the following statement on Tuesday:

"Governor Murphy and his administration continue to guide New Jerseyans through this very difficult time. We have been in close contact with Governor Murphy's staff to comply with the state's protocols throughout. With today's announcement by the governor, we are finalizing our plans to reopen the Quest Diagnostics Training Center. We will continue to have as many employees as possible working remotely. For employees who need to return to work at our facility, we expect to begin that process next week, and we will do so in a systematic and safe way that adheres to the state's guidelines and NFL protocols."

On Sunday, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that professional sports leagues can begin training in his state.