Report: Patriots don’t expect any more players to opt out of 2020 season

The New England Patriots believe they’ve seen the last of their opt-outs, according to The Athletic’s Jeff Howe.

The Patriots have seen six players decide not to play in 2020 due to the novel coronavirus pandemic: linebacker Dont’a Hightower, safety Patrick Chung, tackle Marcus Cannon, running back Brandon Bolden, fullback Dan Vitale and guard Najee Toran. Barring a change in circumstances, that will be the only six players who won’t play.

But of course, there’s no way to bar a chance in circumstances. This is an unprecedented time with ever-changing circumstances. It’s possible that players could grow increasingly uneasy with the season, if they find the NFL’s protocols unsatisfactory or if case totals increase

Can't stress this enough: Fluid situation, players' feelings could change as test results come back in the ensuing days, etc.

But as of now, the Patriots believe this is the end of the opt-outs.

— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) July 28, 2020

Players will have a week to opt out after the NFL and the NFLPA sign their final collective bargaining agreement. Though both parties have agreed to terms, the deal is not actually signed. For now, there is no deadline on opt-outs.