Orchard Park, NY (WBEN) - Buffalo Bills wide receivers Isaiah McKenzie and Cole Beasley have reportedly been fined over $14,000 by the NFL for violating the league's mask policy.
McKenzie shared a letter from the NFL on Twitter Thursday morning detailing the rule that was broken. The fine comes after the team had to send home four unvaccinated players who had been in close contact with a vaccinated trainer who tested positive for Covid.
After being given the fine, McKenzie is now subject to increased discipline for a repeat violation, which could possibly include a 4 game suspension.
According to the NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, Beasley, who has been at the center of the vaccine discussing throughout the summer, also received a fine for similar behavior.
Don't worry they got me too. But I was wearing a mask when I was in close contact with fully vaxxed trainer who tested positive and still got sent home. So what's the point of the mask anyways? Meanwhile I'm here still testing negative and can't come back. Make it make sense. https://t.co/VGzoy0ljb4
— Cole Beasley (@Bease11) August 26, 2021
Bills Coach Sean McDermott told reporters Thursday morning, "I respect our players opinion. In my personal opinion it's right to get vaccinated. It's unfortunate when players get fined but these rules have been agreed upon and in place for some time."
He says that the focus needs to be on keeping everyone safe and trying to win football games.
McDermott also said the Bills are at a competitive disadvantage based on their vaccination rates. "The numbers are the numbers. Some [teams] are in a better position than we are. That being said, it's a personal decision and I respect our players positions. In my personal opinion, it's right to get vaccinated," he said.
