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The NFL Thursday announced a return to universal masking, in addition to other protocol updates, amid an increase of Covid-19 cases across the league.
The NFL said in a statement, “Throughout the pandemic, we have continuously evolved our protocols to meet our goal of advancing the safety of the players, coaches, and staff. The changes we are making today aim to address the increase in cases and the advent of the Omicron variant.”
The statement added, “Effective immediately, all clubs will implement preventative 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.”
The league said the updated protocols are part of a “science-backed approach” that is placing a priority on safety.
Roughly 100 players have tested positive for the virus
Battista also noted that many of those positive cases have come from players who are fully vaccinated. Two-thirds of those who tested positive this week were asymptomatic while the remainder of those who contracted the virus reported mild symptoms.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said the league has had no discussions about postponing any upcoming games, including this week’s lineup which begins on Thursday night.
The league also has two games scheduled for Saturday. The Cleveland Browns, who will face the Las Vegas Raiders, will be without quarterback Baker Mayfield and head coach Kevin Stefanski for the game after both tested positive this week for Covid-19.