With scores of positive tests throughout the NFL, the league has updated it’s policy for COVID-19 cases. The full memo (Twitter link via NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport) details updates to the protocols, including new — and faster — ways in which a vaccinated player can “test out” of quarantine.
“Throughout the pandemic we have continuously evolved our protocols to meet our goal of advancing the safety of players, coaches, and staff,” said the league in a statement issued on Thursday afternoon. “The changes we are maing today aim to address the increase in cases and the advent of the Omicron variant. Effective immediately, all clubs will implement preventattive measures that have proven effective: masking regardless of vaccination status, remote or outdoor meetings, eliminating in-person meals, and no outside visitors while on team travel. We will continue to strongly encourage booster shots as the most effective protection.
“Finally, and based on expert advice, we will adjust the return-to-participation requirements for those who have recovered from COVID-19. All of those changes are grounded in our data and science-backed approach, with safety our number-one goal for the entire NFL community.”
Previously, the NFL required players to test negative twice on back-to-back days before retaking the field. Now, a vaccinated and asymptomatic player will be eligible to return as soon as the day after one positive test. All the changes will be in effect through the end of Week 15 (Twitter link via NFL.com’s Tom Pelissero), with the potential for more modifications as time moves on.
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