The first two Patriots players have opted out of the 2020 season due to coronavirus concerns.
Speaking to USA Today, fullback Dan Vitale's agent Leigh Montville said he will not play this season. Vitale and his wife, Caley, are parents to a newborn baby.
The Patriots signed him this offseason to replace James Develin who retired.
In addition, according to Jim McBride of the Boston Globe, guard Najee Toran is also opting out. He spent most of last season on the Patriots practice squad.
These players will receive a $150,000 stipend as a salary advance on their contracts, which will be tolled for one year.
It's unclear at this time if any more members of the team will opt out.
Players are scheduled to report early this week for COVID-19 tests.
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