The NFL again expanded its COVID-19 mitigation procedures today as the virus continues to spread around the U.S. and multiple teams deal with outbreaks. Masks now will be required for all players and staff before the game, at halftime and after the game, which was previously just strongly recommended. Masks will continue to be recommended, but not required, for non-participating players during the games. Also, sideline areas will be expanded by 20 yards, to include the sidelines between both 20 yard lines, instead of between both 30s.
Both changes are designed to prevent what the league deems “high-risk” close contact with a COVID-19 case. “The high-risk close contacts are avoidable if you’re keeping physical distancing, and as important or even more important is the masks,” said NFL Chief Football Administrative Officer Dawn Aponte. The high-risk designation is crucial, because if the NFL determines one occurred, that player has to sit for five days whether or not he has tested positive. That is reportedly the case in Baltimore, where six players will be placed on the COVID-19 reserve list for at least five days after high-risk contact with confirmed positive Ravens CB Marlon Humphrey.
