NFL issues memo encouraging players and staff to get vaccinated

The NFL has sent a memo to all 32 teams, telling them that they should be encouraging players and staff to get vaccinated and that every team is expected to participate in the vaccination effort.

The memo states the NFL will not require vaccinations but also makes it clear that Tier 1 and 2 employees (other than players) are expected to be vaccinated "unless they have a bona fide medical or religious ground for not doing so." 

If there is a bona fide reason, the employee will be expected to provide documentation and anyone who refuses to be vaccinated without legitimate grounds will be facing serious restrictions.

"Any staffer that refuses to be vaccinated without either a religious or medical reason will not be eligible for Tier 1 or 2 status and therefore will not be permitted access to the ‘football only’ restricted area and may not work directly or in close proximity with players," the memo said.

The memo also said that teams should provide their stadiums and facilities as venues for players and staff members to receive their vaccinations, in order to make the process as simple as possible and maximize the number of NFL employees who are vaccinated by the start of training camp.