Covid-19 caused the NFL a big headache during their 2020 season. There were some games that had to be moved, big-time players had to sit out because they tested positive for Covid-19, and of course the biggest one of all the fans were not filling up the stadiums which cost the NFL money. It seems like many of the NFL teams are not going to be going to voluntary OTAs in 2021. That now includes the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The NFLPA released a statement for the Pittsburgh Steelers players saying "We should not be made to compromise our health and safety in regards to the current Pandemic that is going on." Many NFL teams would rather have a virtual offseason instead of meeting in person. Also, teams feel like some of their protections that they had last season in regards to Covid-19 aren't currently in place right now. Therefore many of the Covid-19 precautions and restrictions are very unclear right now so that is a big reason why many NFL teams are going to boycott OTAs.
So the Steelers are going to exercise their right to not participate in voluntary in-person activities. This is fine to boycott because it is considered 'voluntary.' If some of the players do not want to participate in further activities that are 'mandatory' that should cost them some money.
I am hoping the NFL will give all of the NFL players a date like they did last season to make a decision whether they will opt-out or not. There should definitely be a deadline. If players decide not to opt-out they should be expected to show. The NFL must get it together and start being more clear about how they plan on managing the 2021 season in regards to Covid-19.
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