Buccaneers, Chiefs personnel to be tested twice daily for COVID-19 ahead of Super Bowl

Multiple NFL teams endured COVID-19 outbreaks during a campaign unlike any other in history, but the league nevertheless managed to complete the full 17-week regular season and the conference playoff tournaments on time and without delays. 

The NFL is taking no chances ahead of Super Bowl LV.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reports that the NFL will test players and coaches for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Kansas City Chiefs twice daily for the coronavirus ahead of the championship game scheduled for Feb. 7. Under the plan, players will receive a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test in the morning and then a rapid PCR test later in the afternoon.

According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 at any point following early Friday morning will be ruled out for Super Bowl LV per the NFL's health and safety guidelines. 

Team personnel must continue to follow the league's strict protocols, such as refraining from gathering outside of club facilities and wearing masks or other proper face coverings during any interactions. 

Earlier this week, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor signed an executive order mandating that individuals must wear masks outdoors in downtown and in areas surrounding Raymond James Stadium, home of the Buccaneers and the upcoming Super Bowl. Those who violate the order that runs until Feb. 13 could be fined up to $500.