Steelers News
Steelers Players to Boycott Voluntary Offseason Program amid COVID-19 Concerns
The Pittsburgh Steelers will boycott the upcoming voluntary offseason program, the NFLPA announced in statement Friday.
Steelers players cited “the current pandemic still affecting our communities and country” and a “lack of clear protocols and protections regarding returning to work at full capacity.”
The team also pointed to the success of last year’s virtual offseason program at preventing injury and infection, and believe it “makes no sense” to assume those risk if they do not have too.
The players closed the statement reiterating their commitment and professionalism, while promising to “prepare as we always do to be the be for Steelers Nation.”
A statement from the Pittsburgh Steelers players: pic.twitter.com/aVHvka6j8C
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) April 16, 2021
Their concerns are identical to those raised by the other teams opting out. The Broncos, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Lions, Patriots, Bears, Browns, Giants and Raiders have also chosen not to participate.
It is important to note that the Steelers players have no financial stake in participating in the in-person offseason program, as no player currently on the roster has workout bonus included in their contract.
While OTAs are voluntary, there is a scheduled mandatory minicamp in June.
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