Another change has been made to the league’s COVID-19 protocols, which will take place immediately and remain in place for the remainder of the postseason. The NFL has sent a memo detailing the update, which includes removing the distinction between vaccinated and unvaccinated players, and an end to the requirement for the latter group to be tested daily (Twitter link via NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero).
[Related: NFL, NFLPA Modify COVID Protocols]
As the insider further explains, the changes have been made in conjunction with the NFLPA as more data on the Omicron variant emerges. The most recent changes, implemented in December, have involved targeted testing of symptomatic players and staff members, along with a five-day return rule. Now, tests will only be conducted for players and personnel who have symptoms, or those who are included in random testing.
The memo reads, in part, “This comprehensive, symptom-based approach to testing reflects our recent experience with the Omicron variant and conforms to current public health recommendations and best practices employed in healthcare, and offers the best opportunity for identifying and treating cases promptly and avoiding spread within the facility“.
As Pelissero and others have noted, there are roughly a dozen players on the remaining eight playoff teams, so these changes will directly affect only a small group. Still, even players who have tested positive within the 90 day ‘holiday’ period remain under the same symptom-based testing rules, so the possibility remains for anyone who reports symptoms to miss a playoff game.
B.S. Decoder: It’s the playoffs and the NFL can’t afford to have Rodgers or other star players test positive and not be able to play.
Too much money out there to be lost
just scrap them already
guarantee they won’t return for 2022 season
Only to punish the non-conformers.
I have Covid for the second time right now. Got it about a year ago before I was vaccinated. It was a headcold then, and it’s a headcold now. 100 degree fever, snivels, minor cough, body aches. Just like ever cold I’ve had for my whole life. I’m 40, workout regularly and try to eat semi healthy but also eat a bunch of burgers and whatever when I feel like it. I’m definitely not a professional athlete. Testing these guys all the time for what would almost certainly amount to a cold or less for them has been theater for a while now. There is a shortage of tests in this country, and they should be saved for those who are actually at risk of a bad outcome from covid.
Everyone had to know this is all PR BS as soon as week 16/17 Covids went from all time highs to 4 for the first round of the playoffs. Hope you’re better soon and remember, Party On, Dudes!
Yours truly,
Willam S. Preston Esq.
Just curious- do they have to self report symptoms? What are the chances are going to report a mild cold like symptom if it means potentially not playing?
I’m not trying to say COVId is just a head cold, but it is for some. If Tom Brady has minimal to mild symptoms do you suppose he’d self report that? I’m really just curious