Panthers mandate masks for indoor areas of Bank of America Stadium

Add the Carolina Panthers to the growing list of NFL teams requiring fans to wear proper face coverings in indoor areas of stadiums. 

"The Carolina Panthers have updated the health and safety protocols at Bank of America Stadium in accordance with the upcoming City of Charlotte indoor mask guidelines," the club announced Tuesday in an official statement. "All guests and staff must wear a mask in indoor spaces, including the indoor concourses on the 300 and 400 levels.

"Face coverings are not required outdoors. Masks will be available at stadium entrance points as well as at guest relations and security booths. As public health officials have recommended, guests who are not fully vaccinated are encouraged to wear a mask in all areas." 

Unlike the New Orleans Saints, the Panthers are not requiring fans to show proof of a COVID-19 vaccination or a recent negative coronavirus test to attend home games as of their latest announcement. Like the Saints, Steelers and other clubs, however, the Panthers added they "will continue to monitor public health guidelines and communicate any further update." 

With COVID-19 cases surging throughout the country, it's becoming clear fans will not be attending football games this fall the same way they did throughout the 2019 college and pro seasons.