NFL will test for COVID-19 on game days, has no bubble plans

[Eugene]

Source: Associated Press

NFL will test for COVID-19 on game days, has no bubble plans

By ROB MAADDI
October 14, 2020

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 for COVID-19 on game days starting this week, use of masks in walkthroughs are now mandatory and only play-callers 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.

-snip-

Read more: https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-sports-nfl-football-tennessee-titans-2d099bc5029dcc3d1b486855d0d201de

[underpants]

1. For a 1PM game players are woken up at about 5AM

If tested close to that, from what I know, a good test could possibly be completed.

Okay that being said, THIS below is bullshit

deferred to Dr. Allen Sills, the league’s chief medical officer.

Sills said all options are on the table but warned there are several risks to moving into a bubble. He pointed out that other individuals such as service workers still have to go in and out of the bubble. He emphasized the infection can spread more rapidly if it gets inside. And, he stressed the human element, saying that being sequestered can cause an “emotional” and “behavioral health toll” that becomes a “really significant stress point,” especially around the holidays.

[JonLP24]

2. The human element part is true

It was hard on the NBA players being away from their families until the final weeks.