The NFL is taking quick action after a series of positive tests for COVID-19 came out of a lab in New Jersey on Saturday. It seems the league suspects these positive results were actually false due to irregularities, so the NFL is doing a deeper investigation into the tests. In the meantime, a few teams are pausing or cancelling training camp activities on Sunday.
The Chicago Bears were among the teams hit with a series of positive tests, as they saw nine players and staff test positive for COVID, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Additional testing showed these tests were false positives, however. As a precaution, the Bears postponed the morning practice, pushing to this afternoon at 1:30pm.
The Browns have cancelled their practice as a product of the testing in New Jersey, per the Beacon Journal. It remains to be seen whether there are any other teams impacted by this particular lab.
From Inside Training Camp Live: Some teams are altering plans due to COVID-19 testing irregularities, a test run for the regular season. Game day protocol could allow time for these issues & with fast-results point of care testing, a non-confirmed test may not keep a player out. pic.twitter.com/5QQKuih1JT
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 23, 2020
Several NFL teams are altering or cancelling football activities today after irregularities in results from Saturday’s COVID-19 test results from the same lab in New Jersey. Statement from the NFL: pic.twitter.com/RhwzHQVsUA
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 23, 2020
The NFL had seen their count of COVID-positive players dwindle down to four players. Because the NFL has elected not to use a bubble — like the NBA and so many other sports leagues — some around the league have been bracing for a potential spike, according to CBS Sports’ Jon Jones.
If this set of positives tests proves to be an error, the NFL will continue with their relative success in avoiding the spread of the coronavirus among their players through the early days of training camp.
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