NFL reiterates unvaccinated players must wear masks at indoor news conferences after Aaron Rodgers' COVID-19 saga sparks questions
The NFL and NFLPA agreed to modifications to the COVID-19 protocols and informed teams in a memo on Tuesday, but there were no changes to the requirements about mask use for unvaccinated players.
Instead, the memo included a reminder that such players are required to adhere to those requirements in all cases of inside of facilities.
“Clubs are reminded that any individual who is not fully vaccinated is required to wear a mask at all times when inside the club facility. This includes while giving media interviews or participating in media briefings conducted indoors either at the club facility or at the stadium on game day,” the memo read. “Individuals who are not fully vaccinated may conduct media interviews outdoors or in the practice bubble without wearing a mask, provided that physical distancing is maintained at all times.”
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Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ lack of mask use at press conferences made this a renewed topic of scrutiny last week after he tested positive for COVID-19.
The updated protocols did allow for a change in hydration practices. Teams are allowed to hydrate multiple players using the same water bottle, provided that water is squirted into players’ mouths without the bottle coming in contact with them.
The memo also said that fully vaccinated players and staff members now must undergo bye week re-entry testing after three or more days off.
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NFL COVID protocols: Aaron Rodgers ordeal prompts clarification
