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New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton received a positive test for the coronavirus on Thursday, having gotten tested after noticing symptoms earlier this week before entering a self-quarantine. While the initial concern is, of course, Payton’s personal health — he says that he is feeling better, but will continue to stay at home to avoid infecting others — there is also an understandable anxiety among fans that the coronavirus could spread among team personnel.
Fortunately, the Saints have already taken precautions to prevent this. Coaches have been working remotely ever since Payton felt ill, per The Athletic’s Jeff Duncan, though a few assistants have made quick errands into their offices. The football operations department (headed by general manager Mickey Loomis) met together on the eve of free agency but have also scattered to the winds.
And it hasn’t really impeded business for the Saints. Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reported that free agent negotiations have been held over conference calls and video calls, creating an opportunity for all parties to see and hear each other remotely.
So while it isn’t business as usual, the Saints have remained as competitive as ever in retaining their own free agents and scouring the market for upgrades. Here’s a quick refresher on their salary cap situation.
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