The NFL issued new coronavirus requirements Monday, which include that players will now have to wear face masks on the sidelines unless they have their helmet on and are readying to enter the game. Positive coronavirus cases have been rising in the league as they’ve been surging across the country. There have been a total of 108 positives among players and staff in the past two testing periods, compared to 146 cases in the previous 11 periods. Coaches who were face shields will also be required to wear a mask underneath.
Buffalo Bills tight end Tommy Sweeney has developed myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, related to his Covid-19 illness last month, and will miss the rest of the season. Myocarditis, which is known as a potential development from Covid-19, can lead to heart failure, heart attack, stroke, or even sudden cardiac death. Sweeney’s is the NFL’s first known case.
Cleveland Browns star defensive end Myles Garrett will miss a second game this weekend as he continues to recover from Covid-19. Garrett tested positive Friday and missed Cleveland’s 22-17 win over the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday. The Browns will play the Jacksonville Jaguars next Sunday.