While the NFL has trimmed two games from the preseason, the NFL Players Association board voted to eliminate the other two games as well. The recommendation might not be considered by the league, but it shows there is concern from the players about the prospect of getting into game shape and the risk of the spread of coronavirus as the season nears.
In Other League News:
— The NBA and NBA Players Association have agreed on 29 social statements that can appear on jerseys when play resumes. Among the messages are: “Vote,” “Black Lives Matter,” “I Can’t Breathe,” “Education Reform,” and “Peace.” If chosen, the message will be in place of their last name for the first four games, then a player can go back to their name. If a player continues after the first four games, their last name will go beneath their number.
— The NHL and NHL Players Association have agreed to protocols to return to play in Edmonton and Toronto, with games expected to start August 1.
— MLB players continue to drop out of their upcoming season, as Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher David Price became the seventh MLB player to declare that they won’t play. At the same time, several players across the league tested positive for COVID-19, including New York Yankees DJ LeMehieu and Luis Cessa, and Atlanta Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman.
— An MLS is Back Tournament game between FC Dallas and Vancouver was postponed as six Dallas players tested positive for COVID-19 when they arrived in Orlando. Two Vancouver players also tested positive, keeping the team in Canada. The tournament is scheduled to start Wednesday when Orlando City takes on Inter Miami.
