It wasn’t an easy decision for Browns center JC Tretter to choose to play in 2020. Tretter is a newlywed and he and his wife are expecting their first child. Playing in tight quarters on the offensive line leaves Tretter susceptible to COVID-19 infection, as much as the NFL and the NFLPA, of which Tretter is the president, have tried to mitigate the risk during the ongoing pandemic.
The veteran center explained why he chose to play and why he also wouldn’t be upset with any players who choose to opt out.
“I think everyone should at least think about [opting out],” Tretter said Wednesday in a Zoom teleconference with Browns media. “Obviously, our goal [as the NFLPA] was to give guys options, and then guys make the best decisions for them and their families.”
Tretter noted that like some other players, he has elected to stay in a secured hotel rather than at home with his family.
“I’m playing this year. I’ve made my decision. But I think everybody should take the time to think through and make sure they’re making the best decisions for themselves.”
The opt-out deadline is Thursday at 4 p.m. ET. The Browns have already had three offensive linemen and DT Andrew Billings elect to opt out for the season.
