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NFL COVID protocol change includes high-risk opt-out option

Nov 22, 2020; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Kansas City Chiefs long snapper James Winchester (41) is wearing mask before a game against the Las Vegas Raiders as the CDC recommends wearing masks to slow the spread of COVID-19. Everyone should wear a mask covering unless they are under 2 years of age, and or having a breathing problems at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

With reserve/COVID-19 lists filling up around the league, the NFL and NFL Players Association announced a new set of protocols on Saturday.

The changes include a more targeted testing plan, more flexibility for players to attend meetings virtually and the option for high-risk players to opt-out for the remainder of the season.

“The NFL and NFLPA have been engaged with our medical advisors to address the emergence of the new Omicron variant and how to stop the spread to ensure we keep everyone safe and complete the remainder of the season responsibly,” read the joint NFL-NFLPA statement issued Saturday.

The latest protocol updates follow a schedule shuffle that saw Saturday’s game between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Cleveland Browns moved to Monday, and two of Sunday’s games — Washington at the Philadelphia Eagles and the Seattle Seahawks at the Los Angeles Rams — moved to Tuesday due to COVID-related personnel shortages.

–Field Level Media

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