As it gets closer to training camp, the NFL is working hard to ensure as many players, staffers and coaches are vaccinated before the 2021 season. Most NFL teams have already announced they expect full stadiums in the fall.
Washington Football Team head coach Ron Rivera was proactive this week, bringing in Harvard immunologist Kizzmekia S. Corbett to speak to players concerned about receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
“We’re trying to gather as much information, allow the players to get as much information so they can make a choice, a decision,” Rivera said, per Ethan Cadeaux of NBC Sports Washington. “We actually had one of the vaccine experts speak to one of our players last night. Our players were engaged. They asked a lot of good questions. I think the big thing is we’ve got to facilitate the opportunity for these guys to understand.”
One of Rivera’s players, third-year defensive end Montez Sweat, said he would not be getting the vaccine at this time — and that is strictly his decision.
Full exchange with DE Montez Sweat about the vaccine. pic.twitter.com/SuScqN4jc2
— Sam Fortier (@Sam4TR) June 9, 2021
Rivera talked more about why he felt it was important for players to be vaccinated.
“We’re trying to stress the fact that if we can get to herd immunity, we’ll really be able to get out there and enjoy things,” Rivera said. “So hopefully that happens.”
Training camp opens on July 27, and Rivera said that all team personnel who work directly with the players vaccinated. He said close to 50% of the players had received the vaccine.
