The Minnesota Vikings are doing everything they can to help increase their vaccination rate among players as we get closer to the 2021 season.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported Monday morning that the Vikings are bringing in renowned epidemiologist and infectious disease expert Dr. Michael Osterholm to speak to the team today, per sources informed of the situation.
Minnesota’s vaccination rate among players has lagged behind other NFL teams. Quarterback Kirk Cousins is among the most high-profile players in the NFL not to be vaccinated. Minnesota’s QB room has already dealt with missing time due to a COVID-19 case for rookie Kellen Mond.
Coach Mike Zimmer has been vocal about his frustration regarding his team’s status related to the vaccine.
Players like Cousins have repeatedly stated that they are doing their own research regarding the vaccine. To aid that process, the Vikings will bring in an expert to talk to the players in hopes of convincing the holdouts that the vaccine is safe and will help the team better navigate the 2021 season without restrictions that come from not getting the shot.
Also on Monday, the F.D.A. granted full approval to the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for people aged 16 and older.
