NFL deal delivers strict message: Get vaccinated
The NFL and its Players Association agreed to updated COVID19 protocols Wednesday for training camp and the coming preseason, and the guidelines clearly incentivize players to get vaccinated.
Among the requirements for players who are not fully vaccinated: daily coronavirus testing, masks at team facilities and during travel, physical distancing, quarantine after highrisk exposure to COVID, a 15player limit in the weight room and not leaving the team hotel to eat in restaurants.
Wednesday’s new protocols also forbid unvaccinated players from participating in “social/media/marketing sponsorship opportunities.”
Fully vaccinated players will have virtually no restrictions and will be required to undergo coronavirus testing only once every two weeks. They also will not be labeled a “highrisk close contact” if they are exposed to a person who has tested positive for the coronavirus; that means fully vaccinated players would avoid the fiveday quarantine imposed on unvaccinated players who are exposed to the virus.
Niners head coach Kyle Shanahan said last week that 52 of the 90 players on the team’s offseason roster had been vaccinated, and he hoped the total would increase before training camp. (Also, fully vaccinated coaches such as Shanahan no longer must use face coverings during games.)
Another example of the striking contrast in guidelines for fully vaccinated people and those who are not: Only fully vaccinated people will be permitted on team charter flights. Unvaccinated players also will be banned from eating in the cafeteria and leaving the team hotel to eat.
According to the memo sent to teams Wednesday by the NFL Management Council, players who violate the updated protocols are subject to fines of up to $50,000 — though most specific violations call for a $14,650 fine.
A 49ers spokesman said only that the team is aware of the updated protocols and referred The Chronicle to a previous statement, which read in part, “The 49ers’ priority continues to be the health and safety of our patrons and our community. We are coordinating with local, state and federal officials, medical experts and the NFL, to ensure a safe 2021 season. We are planning to be at full capacity at Levi’s Stadium and will communicate updates as appropriate.”
Wednesday’s memo also indicates spectators will be allowed to attend training camp, as long as they stay more than 20 feet away from Tier 1 staff (including players) at all times. Fans will not be permitted to interact with players, meaning no autographs.