The number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise across the country and within the world of sports. NFL insider Dan Graziano has reported that 37 players and employees tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday. In comparison, only 72 players and employees tested positive from November 14 through November 27.
Of the 37 positive tests, only one test was reportedly a case of the omicron variant of the virus. In addition, Graziano reports that the recent uptick in COVID-19 cases has led the Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Bears and Washington Football Team to institute enhanced COVID-19 protocols.
In an effort to address this issue, the NFL and NFL Players Association are considering making changes to coronavirus protocols as the 2021 regular season comes to a close. Also, league officials issued a memo requesting that all tier one and tier two employees receive a COVID-19 vaccine by December 27. With that said, players are exempt from such mandates.
“On November 29, the CDC issued a study showing that the effectiveness of the approved COVID-19 vaccines may decrease over time and has recommended that all eligible vaccinated individuals over the age of 18 should receive a booster shot,” a memo from the NFL obtained by ESPN reads.
“Given the increased prevalence of the virus in our communities, our experts have recommended that we implement the CDC’s recommendation.”
