Watch now:
NFL plan to protect players amid Covid-19
(2:09)
Progress is being made between the NFL and the NFLPA, but they still have one or two key issues to solve in order for the league’s training camps to start on schedule. One of the main problems was the uncertainty of the players with the COVID-19 protocols, which led many of them to close their arms in virtual solidarity to express their anguish and not threaten football if their concerns were not addressed, attaching a hashtag “#wewanttoplay” to complaints broadcast on social media this week. As the witching hour approaches for veterans to report on July 28, the NFLPA has released figures on how many players have tested positive for the coronavirus at some point during this offseason.
At their initial release, they noted a total of 95, but have since adjusted it to 59. For those who would presume possible manipulation of the numbers, the NFLPA says that’s not the case, but the initial count of 95 accidentally includes more than just players.
“The previous issue included all the positives known throughout the league, including staff, and has now been updated to include only players,” the NFLPA clarified in a follow-up tweet.
In a separate, official press release, the NFLPA made it clear that it is unwavering in its attempts to keep players as safe as possible.
“Our union has been pushing for stronger testing, tracking and treatment protocols to keep our players safe,” the statement read. “The testing protocols we agree on are a critical factor that will help us return to work safely and give us the best opportunity to play and finish the season.”
The rookies began reporting to various camps around the league this week in some way, but were required / required to undergo COVID-19 testing before they are allowed to enter the team’s facilities. A new round of protocol agreed by the NFL and NFLPA also establishes the frequency with which everyone at the facility will be subject to testing, based on a tiered model, and the NFLPA site that points out how many players have so far tested positive for this. Low season also notes that there are 24 of 32 IDER (Infectious Disease Emergency Response) plans still under review by NFL teams.
With just eight additional and approved issues, such as the loss-of-earnings distribution still pending, and with less than a week to go before the scheduled July 28 camp for veterans, there are many in the league wondering. whether the training camp will start on time.
It is certainly possible, but time is running.
