NFL Coronavirus-False-Positive-Gate Explained

“On August 22, 2020, BioReference Laboratories reported an elevated number of positive COVID-19 PCR test results for NFL players and personnel at multiple clubs. The NFL immediately took necessary actions to ensure the safety of the players and personnel," stated Jon R. Cohen, M.D., Executive Chairman of BioReference, on August 24, 2020.

'Our investigation indicated that these were most likely false-positive results, caused by isolated contamination during test preparation in the New Jersey laboratory. Reagents, analyzers, and staff were all ruled out as possible causes and subsequent testing has indicated that the issue has been resolved. All individuals impacted have been confirmed negative and informed.”

'The entire episode puts the NFL and its testing procedures through BioReference in a precarious position, with the opening game kicking off coming soon, said Barry Wilner, AP Pro Football Writer on August 24th. Currently, there are 5 labs in the USA that service the 32 NFL teams.