The NFLPA is taking measures to ensure their players have the most up-to-date information about their health as it relates to COVID-19 ahead of NFL training camps this July.
On Monday, the union sent out a memo instructing NFL agents to provide their clients with information about COVID-19 risk factors from the Center for Disease Control. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero shared a copy of the message sent out to agents. One thing that is made abundantly clear is that the NFL wants players to know about any potential underlying medical conditions that could increase the risk of severe illness from a positive COVID-19 diagnosis.
The NFLPA today directed agents to provide their players with info from the CDC on COVID-19 risk factors and speak with them by mid-July about the importance of consulting their personal physicians as they make decisions on playing this season. https://t.co/1uGHXuK2TQ pic.twitter.com/rvSSSomxn8
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 29, 2020
The NFL asks that each player review and consult their personal physicians about the risk factors and their individual medical histories.
“We want each player to be fully informed about his personal medical situation as he makes decisions about returning to play in the league and throughout the course of the season,” the memo reads. “Proactive engagement in this manner will help players achieve that goal.”
This last bit begs the question: Could some NFL players choose to opt-out of playing during the 2020 season if they are at increased risk of complications from COVID-19?
We’re already seeing some NBA players choose against playing in Orlando for similar reasons, like Los Angeles Lakers guard Avery Bradley, who won’t play due to his son Liam suffering from a history of respiratory illnesses. Could NFL players sit out the season too? What happens to players with heart conditions like Washington DE Montez Sweat or Atlanta OL Kaleb McGary?
The NFL hasn’t yet released information or a plan for those players who might object to playing this season because of their own personal health or the health and safety of their families. It’s definitely something to monitor as we get closer to training camp.
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