Jets quarterback Joe Flacco revealed on Wednesday that he is not vaccinated against Covid-19.
The 14-year veteran confirmed his status when he was asked by a reporter why he was wearing a mask inside team facilities, which is only required of unvaccinated players.
Flacco said he had his reasons for declining the vaccine but didn't want to detail them to avoid creating a "distraction."
Earlier on Wednesday, Flacco was named the starter for Sunday's home game against the Miami Dolphins. The move came after backup Mike White struggled against the Bills in Week 10, throwing four interceptions in a Buffalo blowout.
Meanwhile rookie QB Zach Wilson was practicing again this week, the second consecutive week after he went down with a knee injury in Week 7, but it appears the Jets are in no rush to get him back into the lineup.
Flacco, who appeared in five games with the Jets last season, will be making his first start of the season. He appeared in mop-up duty last week against the Bills. The Jets re-acquired him via trade from the Eagles on Oct. 25.
The 36-year-old's promotion at the expense of White came as a minor surprise to some fans and media, especially after head coach Robert Saleh seemed to stand up for White after his-four dud earlier in the week.
Saleh cited Flacco's calm demeanor and lengthy experience, including the Super Bowl title he won with the Ravens, as reason for starting him over White.
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