Jets surprisingly cut Le’Veon Bell after exploring trades
NEW YORK » The New York Jets have surprisingly released disgruntled running back Le’Veon Bell, ending a disappointing tenure after less than two full seasons.
The team issued a statement from general manager Joe Douglas on Tuesday night in which he says the Jets made the move after having several conversations with Bell and his agent during the last few days and exploring trade options.
“We believe this decision is in the best interests of both parties and wish him future success,” Douglas said.
In a post on Twitter shortly after the Jets’ statement, Bell posted a hands in prayer emoji — implying that the feeling is mutual.
Bell and coach Adam Gase appeared to not mesh since the running back signed last year as a free agent. Bell’s latest frustrations were evident when he liked a few Twitter posts in which some suggested he should be used more in the passing game.
Saints explore moving home games to LSU so fans may attend
NEW ORLEANS » The New Orleans Saints have begun discussions with LSU about holding the NFL club’s future home games at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, a team spokesman said Tuesday.
“LSU has been gracious and enthusiastic regarding hosting our future games and we very much appreciate their partnership,” said Greg Bensel, the Saints’ senior vice president for communications. “We have also discussed the possibility of moving our home games to LSU with the NFL and they are aware of our exploring this option.”
The Saints had asked New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell to allow ticketed fans to occupy about 25% of the Superdome’s 73,000 seats while wearing masks and following other social distancing guidelines during Monday Night’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Mayor denied that request.
NFL will test for COVID-19 on game days, has no bubble plans
The NFL has no plans to move into a bubble as it takes several new steps to combat the spread of the coronavirus.
The league will begin PCR testing on game days starting this week, use of masks in walkthroughs are now mandatory and only playcallers will be permitted to wear face shields in lieu of masks or gaiters on the sideline.
“We cannot grow complacent, not the players, not the coaches, not the rest of our personnel,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said Tuesday following virtual meetings with team owners. “Ninety percent is not good enough in this environment. We have to be incredibly diligent and disciplined.”
The updated protocols sent to teams Monday night also require anyone identified as a “high risk” close contact to be isolated and not permitted to return to the team’s facility for at least five days.