Masks are encouraged for sidelines

The NFL is recommending that players on the sidelines who are not participating in a game or about to go on the f ield wear protective masks.

In a memo obtained by the Associated Press on Friday, the league’s management council also suggested the 32 teams enhance physical distancing on the sidelines while the NFL considers expanding the bench area.

Although the NFL stopped short of mandating masks for all players not on the field, it “strongly encouraged” all active players in the bench area who are not about to enter the game to wear masks while standing on the sideline and/ or sitting on the bench.

“A player wearing a mask during a close contact has a significantly reduced probability of being designated a ‘ High Risk Close Contact’ after an exposure to a COVID-positive individual,” the memo said.

Etc.

The New Orleans Saints ruled out receivers Michael Thomas ( ankle, hamstring) and Marquez Callaway ( ankle) for Sunday’s game in Chicago. ... The Las Vegas Raiders activated right tackle Trent Brown from the COVID- 19 list and could have him available a week after he missed a game because of a positive coronavirus test. ... Baltimore Ravens All- Pro left tackle Ronnie Stanley signed a f ive- year extension that will keep him in Baltimore through the 2025 season. ... New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick doesn’t expect a surgical procedure that Julian Edelman underwent on his ailing knee this week will keep the receiver sidelined for the rest of the season. ... The Seattle Seahawks are still unsure how many healthy running backs they’ll have for Sunday’s matchup against San Francisco after they listed Chris Carson ( foot) and Travis Homer ( knee) as questionable, while Carlos Hyde ( hamstring) was listed as doubtful. Seattle coach Pete Carroll said all three would be game- time decisions.