NFL imposing stricter mask requirements entering Week 12

The NFL announced Monday it plans to impose stricter COVID-19 protocols, taking effect at the start of Week 12.

The league sent a memorandum to every team with additional safety measures due to the increased number of positive COVID-19 cases.

Any player on the sidelines not substituting, wearing a helmet, or preparing to enter the game will be required to wear a mask or double-layered gaiter.

Post-game interactions between opposing teams are now limited to a brief exchange and players and staff must wear masks.

Those who violate these measures will face discipline.

Additionally, teams can only bring a maximum of 62 players in their travel parties to games. Everyone in the traveling party must wear an N95 or KN95 mask on the plane and bus beginning in Week 13.

The only staff allowed to be around players in team facilities is now limited to essential football personnel, essential support personnel such as security, cleaning, and food preparation staff, media, and up to five medical personnel.