One topic of discussion that hasn’t been mentioned much in this lead up to Chicago Bears training camp is a pretty big one. Is there a possibility certain members of the team could choose not to play this season? It’s a real possibility. COVID-19 remains a dangerous and unknown threat. Several players have voiced their concerns about not only their own safety but that of their families.
Up until now, nobody had enough courage to make their decision. However, that is about to change for two key reasons. For one, there is a deadline. The NFL and NFLPA reached an agreement to adjust the Collective Bargaining Agreement. In it, there is a new stipulation. Once the deal is signed, players will have one week to decide if they wish to opt-out or not. Once that has passed, there is no going back either way.
On top of that, one player already made his decision. Kansas City Chiefs guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif chose not to play this season. His announcement could give courage to others who didn’t wish to start that ball rolling.
“Players will be given until Aug. 3 to opt out of next season due to COVID-19 concerns. For those who opt out, the decision will be considered final and they will not be allowed to return during the 2020 campaign. However, the players will still receive some compensation. Those who present preexisting conditions will receive $350,000 and have 2020 still count toward their accrued season totals in the pension plan.
Those who opt out for reasons other than a preexisting medical condition will be in line to receive $150,000, but will not get an accrued season toward the pension plan.”
Are any Chicago Bears players potential risks to bow out?
Answering such a question depends heavily on a variety of factors. Duvernay-Tardif has a medical background and wants to continue his fight against COVID-19. So his decision wasn’t a surprise. Then there are those who fear for their young children, especially those recently born. So guys like Nick Foles and Anthony Miller should at least be mentioned.
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Then there are those older players who have made a lot of money in their careers and maybe won a Super Bowl. So there is little left for them to play for beyond love of the game. Why put themselves at risk? Guys like Danny Trevathan and Cordarrelle Patterson. Then there are the wild cards who may just not like what they’re hearing about the virus and don’t wish to take the chance.
Bears fans should mark down August 3rd on their calendars. That is the day it will become official.
