In the Bills’ first game during the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw Buffalo head coach Sean McDermott do a few different things a couple of times.
McDermott’s trademark clapping on the sideline was certainly on display. Unfortunately, so was a no-no in 2020.
McDermott was spotted on cameras removing his mask over and over again during the win against the Jets to talk to players. In the heat of the battle, no one minded on the Bills sideline.
That doesn’t mean that outsiders weren’t watching, though. On Monday, the NFL sent a memo reminding teams that all coaches and staff must be wearing masks on the sideline. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, fines could be in play if coaches such as McDermott don’t shape up.
Throughout the offseason and training camp, NFL teams have had to undergo strict protocols via league and NFLPA mandates…. including daily COVID-19 testing. Because of that, it comes as no surprise the NFL says it will lock down on this measure for coaches.
But it’s also something that’s new for McDermott and his peers. Perhaps one thing to watch against the Dolphins is for McDermott on the sideline now. Not only to check and see if he has his mask on correctly, but maybe a coaching assistant is tasked with staying close to McDermott on game day to remind him to keep it on. After all, McDermott is a bit busy on Sundays.
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