J.C. Tretter knocks NFL’s wristband vaccination rule

As NFLPA president and Browns starting center, JC Tretter keeps getting asked questions and keeps answering them bluntly. The lastest includes knocking the NFL’s wristband policy.

As discussed over the offseason, the Cleveland Browns and J.C. Tretter are in a unique position due to his position as the NFLPA’s president. In that role, Tretter has the responsibility to speak for all NFL players. In his role as the Browns starting center, he has responsibilities as a teammate and contracted employee of the team.

With negotiations surrounding COVID-19 policies, including vaccinations, Tretter has been vocal this offseason in his presidential role. During those communications, whether interviews or columns written on the NFLPA’s website, the Browns center has not hesitated to speak against the NFL when he deemed appropriate.

That continued today in his training camp interview with the media. Tretter spoke out about the NFL’s wristband vaccination policy:

 

Rarely one to mince word, but always appropriate, Tretter’s use of “nonsensical” ties to his belief that players are identified in other ways. First, the mask mandates clearly delineate the vaccinated players from the unvaccinated players. Second, the team has a list of who has been vaccinated and can use that list to help them track players’ movements.

While the wristbands may make the teams’ jobs easier in making sure procedures are followed, Tretter believes they have another motive: Shame. He also notes that the Browns are not using the wristband system:

 

As Tretter continues to get asked these questions due to his NFLPA position, he seems willing to answer them very directly.