Sam Acho shares his views on the NFL's decision to fine Isaiah McKenzie (and Cole Beasley) for violating the NFL’s COVID-19 protocol. (1:40).
BUFFALO (N.Y.) -- On Thursday, the Buffalo Bills wide receivers Isaiah McKenzie & Cole Beasley revealed that they were fined by the NFL for violating its COVID-19 protocol.
McKenzie posted a photo of the letter that he received from the NFL, showing multiple documented violations to the protocol. In a tweet, McKenzie stated that he was fined $14,000.650
"They got me!" McKenzie wrote. McKenzie wrote: "@NFL, you win!"
Beasley didn't disclose the amount he was fined. He only said on Twitter that he was disciplined because he did not wear a mask for more than five steps from the locker room to the entrance door after having worn it for the entire day.
Coach Sean McDermott of the Bills said that it was unfortunate for players to be fined. "Despite that, these rules have been in place for some time and well communicated. It's vital that we keep our focus on safety and health -- that's number one. 1. That's been the No. 1 priority since inception. 1. 2. We are doing our best to keep our eyes on the goal and the reason we're here, which is to win football matches.
According to the league letter McKenzie was disciplined after he did not wear a mask in team facility twice on Wednesday. Once while walking into the indoor fieldhouse and then again in the meeting area in the weight room, "while gathered next to other players after the offensive meeting."
The league also stated that it had sent him a written warning on July 27, warning him that any future violations could result in an "increased discipline", including conduct detrimental.
The COVID-19 policy of the NFL requires that unvaccinated NFL players wear a mask in all team facilities. McKenzie was reminded of this by the league in its Thursday letter.
McKenzie was informed by the NFL that "your conduct is explicitly prohibited by the Protocols." Your conduct could have serious consequences for your safety as well as others' safety and the league's ability ensure that training camps are conducted safely.
These violations were discovered after six Bills players were sent home Tuesday by the NFL. They were close to a staff member who had been vaccinated and tested positive for COVID-19. Beasley and Vernon Butler were all identified as close contacts by the NFL. They must be away from the facility for five consecutive days per NFL policy. A.J. and Matt Milano were also sent by the Bills. Klein was sent home by the Bills for precautionary reasons. However, neither Milano nor A.J. were considered close contacts and they were allowed to practice Wednesday.
Beasley, who has voiced opposition to the NFL's protocol for unvaccinated and vaccinated players, responded in support McKenzie on Thursday.
Beasley tweeted, "Don't worry, they got me too." "But I was wearing the mask when I was in close touch with fully vaxxed trainers who tested positive but still sent me home. What's the point in wearing a mask?
"Meanwhile, I'm still testing negative and can’t come back. It should make sense.
McDermott stated that around 81% of the team has been fully vaccinated. Due to positive preseason tests, Buffalo placed three players on the COVID-19 reserve/COVID-19 roster. This includes Dion Dawkins, starting left tackle -- who was admitted for four days due to the virus.
"I will make the final decision." McDermott stated Thursday that he respects the positions of our players. "I believe it is right to be vaccinated.
McDermott stated that there is a fine line between competitive and personal reasons for players choosing to get vaccinated. However, he said that final roster cuts won't be made based on player decisions.
McDermott stated that "the choice of being vaccinated, or not vaccinated" will not play a role in deciding who stays and goes.
