Haskins apologizes for partying without his mask
Washington Football Team quarterback Dwayne Haskins issued an apology on Tuesday morning for partying in crowded spaces without a mask after Sunday’s loss to the Seattle Seahawks, and the team has disciplined him — although it’s unclear whether the discipline is a fine or a suspension.
The team is working with the league and plans to handle the situation “internally,” according to a person with knowledge of the situation, who also said that Haskins is not expected to be released. Coach Ron Rivera spoke with Haskins on Monday.
Per a league spokesman, the NFL has been in touch with the team but has no further comment. The NFL Players Association is also aware of the issue.
The team became aware of Haskins’ actions on Monday after social media posts from the previous night circulated showing Haskins and others appearing to dine in a private room at an Oceanaire Seafood Roomand partying maskless in a nightclub or a party bus.
Patronizing a nightclub without personal protective equipment is considered “High Risk COVID-19 Conduct,” according to the NFL’s coronavirus protocols, and is punishable by a fine up to one week’s salary, or up to a four-game suspension. A team has discretion to discipline a player or personnel member for conduct detrimental to the team for a COVID-related violation.
“I want to publicly apologize for my actions this past Sunday,” Haskins wrote on Twitter. “I spoke with Coach Rivera yesterday and took full accountability for putting the team at risk. It was irresponsible and immature of meand I accept responsibility for my action.”
This incident comes at a critical time for Washington, which is in the midst of a playoff run and could clinch the NFC East title on Sunday with a victory over the Panthers and a loss by the Giants. Starting quarterback Alex Smith is dealing with a calf strain that caused him to miss the loss to Seattle, and his status for this week is unclear. Behind Haskins on the depth chart are Taylor Heinicke and Steven Montez.