Association sport

NFL and NFL Players Association agree to suspend all Covid-19 protocols

The NFL will no longer conduct mandatory surveillance tests on players or staff, regardless of their vaccination status, the league said in the memo obtained by CNN. Masks are also no longer required around the team facility, regardless of vaccination status. At some point during Omicron’s surgefully vaccinated people were required to test weekly and unvaccinated people daily.

Both the NFL and NFLPA cited “encouraging trends in the prevalence and severity of Covid-19” and evolving CDC guidelines in the memo.

“We will continue to prioritize the health and safety of players, coaches and staff, as we have done throughout the pandemic,” the NFL said. “If there is a reason to reimpose aspects of the protocols or take other action, we will work closely with clubs, the NFLPA and our respective experts, as well as local, state and federal health officials. to continue to protect the health of the NFL community.”

The NFLPA confirmed the deal to CNN but had no comment.

According to the memo, individuals are still urged to monitor for any symptoms of Covid-19 daily. Anyone showing symptoms should report it to the team and test negative before entering the facility. Anyone who tests positive must self-isolate for at least five days after their test. Testing should only take place when “clinically indicated or under the direction of the club physician”.

The league added that teams must remain “in compliance with state and local laws and are free to continue to take reasonable steps to protect their staff and players.”

On Dec. 15, the league said nearly 95% of its players were fully vaccinated along with “100%” of other NFL personnel.

The NFL scouting combine is currently underway from Indianapolis, Indiana, and will continue through March 7.

The NFL Draft is scheduled for April 28-30 in Las Vegas, Nevada.