The COVID rules that relate to the practice squad... or... why we could sign Isaiah Ford

[Feverdream]

• Expansion of practice squads to 16 players, including up to six who have more than two accrued seasons.
• The ability to protect up to four practice squad players per week from being signed by other teams.
• Elevation of up to two practice squad players to the active roster, without removing any current players, before 4 p.m. ET the day before a game.
• Elevation of an additional practice squad player within 90 minutes before kickoff in the event of a late COVID-19 positive test result.
• Players placed on injured reserve can return after three weeks, rather than six as in normal seasons.
• Removal of the limit for how many players can be activated from injured reserve.

These rules were renewed for this season, and the first rule is why a player like Ford can be signed. No one expects him to make the team, but the rule allowing 6 experienced players to be on the squad creates a spot for a smart, albeit limited, back up player. He'll be in practice every week, leading by example and effectively coaching the younger players while earning a minimal salary that doesn't impact the salary cap. Win/win. He'll help the Dolphins, and help himself remain in the game.

The fifth and sixth new rules affect guys like Elandon Roberts. The 'return after three weeks' rule lets us stash a semi-productive player on IR for the first few weeks as we see if those who were brought into replace him are any good. This could also be a spot for Preston Williams if he isn't ready to go. This way, we can stash multiple players and not run into the old rule of 2 per season.

 

[fishfanmiami]

Guys we are not discussing Covid in general on this forum

 

[13marino13]

Sorry Fever, good post but there are many here that are unable to display self-control and general restraint especially with such a polarizing topic. I'm gonna cut it off before it starts. This will not end up in a good place. I am locking from comments.