Sean McDermott 'Concerned' Bills Might Not Hit Possible NFL Vaccination Threshold

According to head coach Sean McDermott, the Buffalo Bills might not reach the rumored vaccine threshold to have COVID-19 protocols relaxed. 

McDermott told reporters Tuesday he's "concerned" the Bills won't reach the 85 percent COVID-19 vaccine threshold reportedly being considered by the NFL.

In his Football Morning in America column, NBC Sports' Peter King reported the league is considering relaxing its health-and-safety protocols for teams if 85 percent of their players get fully vaccinated.

King noted he was told by one club official that his team's coaching staff and support staff have been fully vaccinated, but he estimated a "less than 40 percent vax rate for players."

McDermott said Tuesday he feels it's important to "educate" players about the vaccine, rather than "convince" them to take it. 

The 85 percent threshold has been adopted by Major League Baseball. The Associated Press (h/t Washington Post) reported last week that 14 clubs have hit that mark, meaning they no longer have to wear masks in the dugout or bullpen, or wear tracking devices. 

Players are also allowed to gather for activities in the clubhouse and casual settings away from the diamond. 

The NFL did relax protocols during the 2021 NFL draft for teams as long as everyone who had to be in the war room was fully vaccinated.