NFL coaches fined for violating mask policy on sidelines

Three NFL teams are facing fines of up to $250,000 each because their coaches did not wear masks or face coverings during games on Sunday, according to multiple reports.

The three teams being fined are the Seattle Seahawks, Denver Broncos and San Francisco 49ers.

The three head coaches of the teams, the Seahawks’ Pete Carroll, the Broncos’ Vic Fangio and the 49ers’ Kyle Shanahan were also each fined $100,000.

The NFL’s executive vice president of football operations, Troy Vincent, sent a memo to all 32 of the league’s teams a week ago calling on coaching employees to wear their masks at all times, CNN reported. Vincent warned in the memo that failure to follow the public health guidelines would result in sanctions.

“We must remain vigilant and disciplined in following the processes and protocols put in place by not only the league, union and clubs, but also by state and local governments,” Vincent said in the memo.  

During games on Monday night, Raiders head coach Jon Gruden and Saints head coach Sean Payton were seen not wearing a mask or face coverings. Payton in March tested positive for coronavirus.

Gruden said during a post-game interview that he had previously had COVID-19, adding that he would accept a sanction if issued.

Wearing a mask or face covering is recommended, but not required, for players on the sideline during games in many NFL stadiums. It is required for players during games in the stadiums of the 49ers and the Buffalo Bills.

The Hill has reached out to the Seattle Seahawks, the Denver Broncos and the San Francisco 49ers for comment.