Five Titans’ team personnel and three players tested positive for the novel coronavirus on Tuesday, forcing the franchise to close their facilities.
In a statement given to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, the franchise said that the eight members are asymptomatic. The Tennessee Titans confirmed that they have been observing caution and all the in-person work for Tuesday was halted.
“Out of the abundance of caution, the organisation has decided to work remotely today as we follow NFL protocols related to the COVID-19 virus,” read the statement.
The Minnesota Vikings, who played the Titans on Sunday, also closed their doors for the meantime. 48 close contact points have been traced between Vikings and the eight players. Contingency and rescheduling plans are being discussed, sources told ESPN.
The National Football League also issued a statement saying that the NFLPA and medical officials have been dealing with the two franchises. “To evaluate close contacts, perform additional testing and monitor developments with health and safety as our primary consideration,” the body said.
Shane Bowen and an outside linebackers coach missed the Sunday game owing to COVID-19 protocols. Isaiah Wilson also missed the game as he had been kept in protocol since earlier this month.
Pittsburgh Steelers, who as per schedule would have to play in Nashville on Sunday, issued a statement that said, “We have been in contact with the NFL regarding the positive COVID-19 tests with the Titans. We have been informed to proceed with our game preparations for Sunday’s game until we are informed otherwise. We will provide more information when available.”
No decision has yet been made about the Steelers game, a source told ESPN. The Vikings’ next game is Sunday at the Houston Texans.
As per protocol, asymptomatic cases can return to the field in 10 days after the test or after five days with two consecutive negative tests. Those who show symptoms can return 10 days after the symptoms first appear and 72 hours have passed since any symptoms have ended.
