The NFL Will No Longer Enforce COVID-19 Protocols On Players, Staff

The National Football League and its players' association announced in a memo Thursday that all COVID-19 protocols will be dismissed.

“The NFL and NFLPA have agreed to suspend all aspects of the joint COVID-19 Protocols, effective immediately, per sources,” the NFL Network'sTom Pelissero tweeted Thursday.

This will include no more requirements for masks, tracking devices, surveillance testing and capacity limits. Restrictions will only be required if mandated by the state or local laws, according to the NFL.

"Based on current encouraging trends regarding the prevalence and severity of COVID-19, the evolving guidance from the CDC, changes to state law and the counsel of our respective experts, the NFL and NFLPA have agreed to suspend all aspects of the joint COVID-19 Protocols," the league memo said.

"We will continue to prioritize the health and safety of players, coaches and staff, as we have throughout the pandemic,” it added.

The NFL is mimicking many other organizations that are loosening up on protocols following a recent announcement from the Centers for Disease and Controls that masks are no longer required indoors.

The NFL still expects players and all individuals to self-monitor themselves daily for any COVID symptoms. If a person does test positive, they will not be able to return to their duties until a negative test is presented.