It’s nearly time for the NFL to restart operations as players will be reporting to camp as soon as Monday for the Kansas City Chiefs and Houston Texans. However, the NFLPA has some issues they would like ironed out as soon as possible, the most notable of which is the frequency of testing for COVID-19.
Many would agree that it feels like the league has taken its time when it comes to getting an adequate testing protocol for its players, which will be key in making things as safe as possible for each team. Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Chris Conley would definitely agree as he, alongside several other players, called the league out Sunday for dragging their feet on the matter.
The veteran took to Twitter while also stating that the NFL has ignored recommendations by medical professionals hired by the union to help make each facility safer.
Conley’s statements drew some backlash, which caused him to follow up with the tweet below.
Conley brought up a point not widely discussed in the league today: one case of COVID-19 could easily devastate a team, especially those who can’t afford to lose certain starters for weeks at a time. If the goal is to win and protect its players, the league should definitely consider this added hurdle in planning a season during a global pandemic.
Players certainly can’t be blamed for wanting safer conditions, especially after the NFL has had since early spring to put effective plans in place. Additionally, there are certain states that are considered “hot spots” for the coronavirus, putting the teams that play there at higher risk than others. With Florida routinely setting a new record for new infections, players from the Jags, Miami Dolphins, and Tampa Bay Bucs should be exercising the cautions necessary to mitigate risk.
It remains to be seen if both sides can meet in the middle, but this could spell trouble if more players take issue with the league’s plans.
