ORCHARD PARK, NY - DECEMBER 29: A general view of a New York Jets helmet before a game against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on December 29, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. Jets beat the Bills 13 to 6.

NFL testing modified facemasks to protect players from coronavirus

Timothy T Ludwig / Getty Images Sport / Getty

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NFL engineers are testing protective facemasks on helmets for the 2020 season, NFLPA medical director Thom Mayer said on "The Adam Schefter Podcast," according to ESPN.

Mayer recommends that players wear modified facemasks as the world continues to combat the coronavirus pandemic. The NFL is working with Oakley on new facemasks with surgical or N95 material.

"Yes, it's a possibility," Mayer said of the prototypes being used for the upcoming season. "Back in early March, I suggested ways to handle the helmets and the facemasks ... the league's bioengineers are testing prototypes with Oakley. They're looking at every issue, including when masks fog up."

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