NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy announced today that the league would require fans in attendance this season to wear face coverings to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus). Of course, that is if there are any fans in attendance.
For those wondering, yes, it is league-wide: fans at NFL games this season will be required to wear face coverings pic.twitter.com/D139KGKQ4r
— Brian McCarthy (@NFLprguy) July 22, 2020
The coronavirus pandemic shows no signs of slowing, so fans may not be allowed in NFL stadiums when the league kicks off its regular-season slate of games. Philadelphia officials announced that fans wouldn't be allowed at Eagles games, while both New York teams announced that they would not have fans in attendance. Others cling to hope that they can at least host a limited number of fans.
Several teams had already announced that, should fans be allowed, they will be required to wear face coverings. The NFL's announcement makes the mandate official across the league.
The San Francisco 49ers are scheduled to open the regular season against the Arizona Cardinals on September 13 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara. They will then travel to the East Coast to face the two New York teams, which, as mentioned, aren't allowing fans, in back-to-back games.