Wednesday 30 September 2020 21:22, UK
The NFL is warning teams that if coaches do not comply with league rules and properly wear masks during games, they could lose future draft picks.
The league has already fined five coaches $100,000 and their teams $250,000 each over failure to wear masks.
But on Wednesday, a league memo warned that failing to follow protocols amid the coronavirus pandemic could result in suspensions or the forfeiture of picks in the draft.
The memo was signed by NFL executive vice-president Troy Vincent and distributed to team executives, general managers and coaches.
"Both our own and independent medical advisors have emphasised the need to remain vigilant and disciplined in following the processes and protocols put in place by agreement with the NFLPA as well as by state and local governments," Vincent wrote in the memo.
"We are only through Week 3 of the season. If we are to play a full and uninterrupted season, we all must remain committed to our efforts to mitigate the risk of transmission of the virus.
"Inconsistent adherence to health and safety protocols...will put the 2020 season at risk."
It comes after nine Tennessee Titans and staff members have tested positive for Covid-19 since the weekend with their game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday being postponed and set to be played Monday or Tuesday instead.
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