NFL Rumors: League Threatens Suspensions, Lost Draft Picks if Mask Protocols Are Not Followed

The NFL reportedly sent a "strongly-worded" memo to team executives on Wednesday urging for compliance in game-day protocols, particularly in wearing face masks.

The NFL sent a "strongly-worded" memo to team executives on Wednesday and urged for compliance with game-day protocols, particularly in wearing face masks, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter and confirmed by SI's Albert Breer. 

In the message to teams, the league stated that it will "address lack of compliance with accountability measures that may include...suspensions and/or forfeiture of draft picks.” Under the NFL's COVID-19 protocols, executives, general managers and head coaches must wear face masks on game days while they are on the sideline. 

Two memos went out from the league office this morning, both from NFL EVP Troy Vincent, both warning that non-compliance on COVID-19 measures would be penalized.

Here are those memos. pic.twitter.com/CpVfkERyjk

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) September 30, 2020

The new memo comes after the NFL previously sent warnings this month to teams about following game day protocols. Through the first three weeks, the NFL has penalized head coaches for not properly wearing face masks by fining the individual $100,000 and the team an additional $250,000. Coaches who have reportedly received the penalty include Seattle's Pete Carroll, San Francisco's Kyle Shanahan, Denver's Vic Fangio, New Orleans' Sean Peyton and Las Vegas' Jon Gruden. 

On Tuesday, it was announced that three Tennesse players and five personnel members tested positive for COVID-19. An additional case among Titans players was announced on Wednesday. 

Keep up with the latest news and rumors around the NFL.

• Saints WR Michael Thomas returned to practice on Wednesday after missing the last two games with an ankle sprain. (Ian Rapoport, NFL Network)
• The Titans placed OLB Kamalei Correa on the reserve/COVID-19 list, marking the fourth player to be added over the last two days. 
• The Vikings plan to reopen their practice facility on Thursday, head athletic trainer Eric Sugarman said. 
• The NFL has postponed Sunday's Titans-Steelers game due to Tennessee's COVID-19 outbreak. Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin said he hears there is a "strong possibility" the game will be held on Monday. 
• Washington Football Team pass-rusher Chase Young is expected to be out against the Ravens in Week 4 after suffering a moderate groin strain on Sunday. The No. 2 pick, who has totaled 2.5 sacks this season, is considered week-to-week. (Ian Rapoport, NFL Network)
• Jets RB Le'Veon Bell is eyeing a Week 5 return to the lineup and intends to play vs. the Cardinals barring an unforeseen setback. Bell was on the short-term injured reserve with a hamstring issue. (Jeremy Fowler, ESPN)
• Buccaneers WR Chris Godwin is out this week and potentially next Thursday against the Bears after an MRI confirmed a mild hamstring pull. He is not expected to miss extended time. (Ian Rapoport, NFL Network)