At least five NFL teams in enhanced COVID-19 protocols
It was learned earlier in the day that the NFL recorded 37 positive COVID-19 test results on Monday. There's now more information about the league's coronavirus-related troubles.
Per Dan Graziano of ESPN, the Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, Houston Texans and Chicago Bears have all entered the league's enhanced COVID-19 protocols, which involves daily testing of personnel regardless of vaccination statuses and mandating mask-wearing at team facilities. Graziano also suggested other teams may also be in enhanced protocols but haven't yet confirmed the news.
Additionally, a Washington Football Team Tier 3 employee "who had limited contact with other members of the organization" tested positive for the Omicron variant.
Graziano adds the NFL and NFL Players Association have begun discussions about how they might alter health and safety protocols following Monday's report. Thus far, the league has pushed back against NFLPA requests for daily testing of all personnel, vaccinated and unvaccinated, but that could soon change as all involved attempt to avoid schedule disruptions.
The news about the NFL's potential COVID-19 crisis comes on the same day the Calgary Flames and Chicago Bulls had their seasons temporarily paused because of virus outbreaks. It's unclear if NFL officials fear any Week 15 games will have to be shifted or postponed because of coronavirus issues.
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