NFL Refs are Now Permitted to Flag Teams for Not Wearing Masks

Step aside challenge flag, there’s a new flag in town.

NFL teams were informed Friday that “any individual who approaches an official without a face covering is subject to a 15-yard penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct, as well as possible fines, suspensions and forfeiture of draft picks,” NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported.

Fewell's memo references multiple head coaches removing masks and says game officials have been reminded "if an individual not wearing a face covering approaches them inappropriately, they have the authority to take administrative or officiating action," including penalties.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 9, 2020

The NFL has already dished out fines to Jon Gruden, Vic Fangio and at least three other coaches for either not wearing masks, or not wearing them properly.

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Once coaches understand they can get the 15 yard penalty, they’ll quickly adhere to the protocol. You can affect their bank accounts, but they do not want the league messing with their game.

Maybe they’ll call it the Belichick rule:

Bill Belichick loses his mind, also ditches the double mask after the refs rule that Patrick Mahomes didn't fumble. pic.twitter.com/6w5P75g75x

— The Comeback (@thecomeback) October 6, 2020

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