The NFL and NFLPA informed the 32 teams on Thursday that all Covid-19 protocols have been lifted, effective immediately. After nearly two years of restrictions, the league is therefore returning to its pre-pandemic modus operandi.
The memo states that “current encouraging trends regarding the prevalence and severity of Covid-19” as well as new CDC guidelines and changes to state laws have triggered the move. The NFL also informed its clubs that local and state rules still remain in effect regardless of its own suspension of protocols.
The changes drastically changes day-to-day operations, with the following areas effected:
- Covid-19 testing: The NFL will no longer conduct mandatory surveillance testing of players or staff members, regardless of their vaccination status.