NFL and Union agree to daily tests to start camp

FRISCO, Texas – The NFL’s plan for the conduct of training camp is gradually taking shape.

After a series of conference calls on Monday, the NFL and NFLPA agreed on COVID-19 testing protocols to help players and coaches fit into their training camp regimen as easily as possible.

The initial plan was to test every other day, but many top players took to social media over the weekend to question league protocols. As a result, the two sides agreed on daily testing for the first two weeks of training camp. Players are expected to have to produce more than one negative test before they can enter their team’s facilities.

The plan is to review these daily tests after a two-week period, and if the positive test rate is less than 5%, the league will take the tests every other day.

Players should also wear proximity recording devices for all team activity, which will help officials contact Trace to quickly determine who an infected player has come in contact with.

Of course, there will also be protocols for positive tests. If a player tests positive and exhibits symptoms, they will be allowed to return to the facility 10 days after experiencing symptoms for the first time – and at least 72 hours have passed since the last onset of symptoms. If there is a positive test without symptoms, that player can return to the facility 10 days after the initial test – or if they produce two consecutive negative tests within five days of the initial positive test.

More updates are undoubtedly underway as the reporting dates get closer. But for now, it looks like a step in the right direction.