NFL COVID-19 testing and contact tracing policy

In light of the positive COVID-19 test for New York Giants guard Will Hernandez, here is the NFL’s current protocol for Hernandez and for those who had contact with him.

IF A PLAYER TESTS POSITIVE, WHEN CAN HE RETURN TO THE FACILITY?

Following a positive test, if the player is asymptomatic, he can return once:

10 days have passed since the initial positive test; OR

Five days have passed since the initial positive test and the player receives two consecutive negative PCR virus tests at least 24 hours apart within that five-day period

Following a positive test, if the player demonstrates symptoms, he can return once:

At least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared; AND

At least 72 hours have passed since he last experienced symptoms

All players must get clearance from the club’s Head Physician in both cases.

IF A PLAYER TESTS POSITIVE, WHEN CAN HE RETURN TO PLAY?

Players who have tested positive and recovered, or who have tested positive for antibodies, will undergo additional cardiac screening.

Following a mild, symptomatic infection, a player must complete at least a three-day progressive exercise protocol under the supervision of the team medical staff with appropriate clinical monitoring.

Following a moderate to severe infection, a player must complete a progressive exercise protocol for a recommended seven days or for a period equal to twice the duration of the hospitalization.

HOW WILL CONTACT TRACING WORK?

Contact tracing will be conducted by a third party, IQVIA, and be implemented after an infected player receives a positive test result to identify any employees and players who came in close contact with that person.

Clubs will notify the proper health authorities of any positive tests as required by applicable local regulations or laws. Kinexon Proximity Recording player tracking devices will be used to identify in-game close contacts, and the devices must be worn during all team activities (e.g. facility, practice, team travel).

Multiple reports have indicated that those who came in contact With Hernandez, including coaches Jerome Henderson and Bret Bielema, are considered “close contacts” but not “high-risk” ones. They could return to the Quest Diagnostics Training Center on Friday if they test negative for COVID-19 twice.