Report: NFL likely to test families of players in initial coronavirus screening

The NFL is still finalizing its coronavirus testing protocol, but the initial screening process is likely to be a very thorough one.

According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, the expectation is that there will be a thorough intake screening when players initially report to training camp. This will not only include players, but also family members of players and anyone they’ve been co-habitating with.

In addition, players will likely be subject to both a standard COVID-19 test as well as an antibody test to detect if the individual may have previously had the virus.

The NFL and NFLPA are still finalizing testing protocols, but the expectation is players’ families — and anyone else players are cohabitating with — will be part of initial COVID-19 screening. All part of ecosystem they’ll rely on to make football work. @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/tJUv9Whwr8

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 6, 2020

Pelissero notes that this is not a bubble, which the NFL has maintained is not necessary to safely play the season.

As the last sport to get started, the NFL can take some cues from other leagues as it develops its testing plan. This thorough process makes it more likely that the season can be played safely.