The Buffalo Bills were hoping for a successful 2021 season, but the COVID-19 pandemic and its protocols pose challenges, particularly with several players choosing not to get vaccinated.
Isaiah McKenzie, a wide receiver for the Bills who is unvaccinated, received a nearly $15,000 fine for not wearing a mask in the team facility, as revealed in a letter he shared on Thursday. Cole Beasley also confirmed he was fined for the same reason via Twitter.
As a result of the infractions, both players now face harsher penalties.
“Following a $14,650 fine from the NFL for not wearing masks, Bills receivers Cole Beasley and Isaiah McKenzie could now face escalated consequences for repeat offenses, potentially including conduct detrimental penalties of up to a four-game suspension or loss of one week’s salary.”
Earlier this week, it was revealed that Cole Beasley, Gabriel Davis, Star Lotulelei, and Vernon Butler from the Buffalo Bills would miss five days of practice due to potential exposure to a team trainer who tested positive for COVID-19.
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Despite testing negative, all four players had to follow the NFL’s COVID-19 policy and sit out practice.
The NFL’s guidelines for unvaccinated players mandate more frequent testing, as well as the use of masks and social distancing in team settings and during travel. Unvaccinated players who are in close contact with a positive case must also stay away from the team for five days.
“If players, whether vaccinated or unvaccinated, are tested less often, the risk of COVID-related disruptions decreases significantly,” Beasley remarked. “Ultimately, we all prioritize player safety.”
Beasley was the Bills’ second-highest receiver last season, tallying 967 yards on 82 receptions.
