Former New York Giants assistant and current New Orleans Saints head coach, Sean Payton, announced on Thursday that he has tested positive for the coronavirus, becoming the first known case in the NFL.
“This is not just about social distancing,” Payton told ESPN, urging Americans to take the threat seriously. “It’s shutting down here for a week to two weeks. If people understand the curve, and understand the bump, we can easily work together as a country to reduce it. Take a minute to understand what the experts are saying. It’s not complicated to do what they’re asking of us. Just that type of small investment by every one of us will have a dramatic impact.
“I was fortunate to be in the minority, without the serious side effects that some have. I’m lucky. Younger people feel like they can handle this, but they can be a carrier to someone who can’t handle it. So we all need to do our part. It’s important for every one of us to do our part.”
Shortly after Payton’s reveal, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement.
“He did the right thing by seeking medical attention and we wish him a speedy recovery,” Goodell said.
“It shouldn’t come as a surprise as this pandemic continues that members of our NFL family will be directly impacted. This news underscores the importance of everyone following the advice from medical and public health experts to protect themselves and others.”
