New Orleans Saints Head Coach Sean Payton has reportedly tested positive for COVID-19, the virus currently afflicting the world at a pandemic level, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Saints’ HC Sean Payton tested positive for the coronavirus, he told ESPN on Thursday. Payton is the first person in the NFL world known to test positive for the virus.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 19, 2020
Sean Payton said he came forward with his coronavirus diagnosis because he wants all people to heed the warnings of government officials, stay inside, and behave responsibly. More ahead on ESPN.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 19, 2020
Payton, a Super Bowl Champion coach with the Saints, is the first person associated with the NFL to be confirmed to have the coronavirus. His diagnosis follows a series of professional sporting events halted by the pandemic. Affected competitions include NCAA March Madness as well as the NBA season, as at least seven NBA players have contracted coronavirus, including former league MVP Kevin Durant.
