In future, the NFL will only test unvaccinated players for Corona if they show symptoms. The previously daily sample collections are no longer required.

Los Angeles / Munich – The US professional football league NFL will only test unvaccinated players for Corona if they show symptoms. The previously daily sampling will no longer be carried out. According to ESPN, the league has agreed on this policy with the players’ union NFLPA. Previously, the rule only applied to vaccinated professionals.

There are reportedly only a dozen unvaccinated players on the eight teams remaining in the playoffs. One of them is superstar Aaron Rodgers of the Green Bay Packers. After a Corona infection, the quarterback is exempt from testing for 90 days as a recovered player, but that period ends soon.

“This symptom-based testing approach is consistent with current public health recommendations and offers the best chance to identify cases promptly,” ESPN quoted from a memo to the clubs. From December 12 to January 8, 756 players and 478 staff members tested positive. The majority had no symptoms.

Most recently, “ESPN” had already reported that the professional ice hockey league NHL also wants to test only if there are symptoms. The requirement is to apply after the All-Star Game (5 February). However, further testing is planned before crossing the border from the USA to Canada and vice versa.