Green Bay Packers MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers has tested positive for COVID-19 and has been ruled out of Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs. In August, Rodgers told reporters that he was immunized. This turned out to be untrue. The situation has raised questions as to whether the Packers have been in breach of the league’s COVID-19 protocols.
#ICYMI – AUGUST 27th
"He didn't say I was vaccinated. He said I'm immunized." @michaelsmith told y'all Aaron Rodgers wasn't vaccinated months ago that pic.twitter.com/IxTKrRhbAz
— Brother From Another on Peacock TV (@HolleyandSmith) November 3, 2021
What do we know?
Those protocols clearly state: Unvaccinated players are subject to more stringent rules than vaccinated players. They are required to wear masks “at all times when inside the Club facility,” including while working out in the weight room. In addition, they’re subject to daily PCR testing. And they are barred from coming within six feet of other unvaccinated players while traveling or eating meals.
Aaron Rodgers had applied for exemption status from the league and did not receive a waiver. As an alternative, he decided to pursue homeopathic treatment to increase his body’s immunity. After the treatments, he petitioned the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) and the league again about an exemption ruling. The NFLPA and the league reviewed his case a second time, and his application was once again denied.
LaFleur had this to say about the situation. “As far as the football space is concerned, I’m 100 percent confident” the Packers followed the league’s COVID-19 protocols for unvaccinated players.” He refused to comment about other potential violations of the protocols.
The Packers next moves and a possible fine for Aaron Rodgers
With Rodgers’s absence, Jordan Love, the Packer’s 2020 first-round pick is poised to make his first NFL start. Practice squad quarterback Kurt Benkert was also placed on the COVID list and has been also ruled out of the Chiefs game. So, because of that, Green Bay signed former Jacksonville quarterback Blake Bortles to back up Love for Sunday’s game.
The NFL can fine players $14,650 for their first violation of league COVID-19 protocols. It will be interesting to see how Roger Goodell handles this situation. And if he decides to penalize one of the league’s marquee players.
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