Anthony Barr and Eric Kendricks (Among Others) Demand COVID-19 Protocols from NFL via Social Media

NFL training camps are getting set to begin. A few teams even have their rookies reporting on Monday and Tuesday (tomorrow and the next day). Unfortunately though, there still remains a variety of questions as to the precise safety protocols the NFL will put into place, to protect players from contracting or spreading COVID-19.

In a coordinated effort by the NFLPA to push the league into action, some of the best players in the league have decided to speak up on their social media platforms. Two of those players are Minnesota Vikings linebackers, Eric Kendricks and Anthony Barr.

I just want to play football with my teammates but we need the @NFL to step up and create a safe work environment for us!  #wewanttoplay

— Eric Kendricks (@EricKendricks54) July 19, 2020

I want to play football and I know the fans want to watch football this year! For that to happen, we need the @NFL to step up and create a safe work environment for us players! #wewanttoplay pic.twitter.com/50oeWK5V33

— Anthony Barr (@AnthonyBarr) July 19, 2020

What’s Next?

It remains to be seen, if the league and its players will find a happy medium in time, for the players to feel comfortable reporting to camp or sitting out. It does appear the social media pressure is quickly gaining momentum towards NFL action.

NFL/NFLPA negotiations continue this afternoon and likely this evening. Reality is, something has to get done tonite. If HOU/KC rookies show up Monday and NFLPA hasn't signed off on protocols, union could file a grievance claiming unsafe work environment. Neither side wants that.

— Dan Graziano (@DanGrazianoESPN) July 19, 2020

Hopefully, the pressure from the many players, including our beloved Vikings stalwarts, will bring some common sense to the table. As Graziano says, the clock is ticking and players can’t report to camp without safety protocols in place.

It’s embarrassing. The NFL had other professional leagues around the country to draw ideas from, yet players are supposed to report tomorrow… and they still don’t have a plan ironed out.

Ameer Eldomiatti | Minnesota Sports Fan