Referees Are Now Permitted To Throw Flags On Teams For Coaches Not Wearing Masks During Game

The NFL has repeated reminded teams that coaches on the the sidelines must wear masks or face shields throughout the game this season, and after fining several coaches a significant amount of money for violating that protocol, the league is now taking it to another level.

According to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network, the league has given the referees the right to flag coaches if they come close to officials while not wearing a face covering:

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

This new rule comes after the NFL Referees Association complained to the league over non-compliance from various coaches around the NFL. The memo, which has been give to all 32 teams also states that even more severe punishment could be levied for repeat offenses.