Training camp got off to a rough start for Philadelphia Eagles head coach Doug Pederson after he tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19). Fortunately, he has since cleared the safety protocols established by the NFL and was able to make his return just over a week after announcing the news.
Pederson was limited to virtual meetings and practice film during his stint in quarantine. According to ESPN's Tim McManus, he is admittedly anxious about coming back:
“I obviously didn't want to miss any time if I didn't have to but I stayed engaged virtually with the team,” Pederson said. “I was able to watch the practices and stay up on everything we did and still run the team from my home. I think that's something the offseason taught me, how to do that virtually, but at the same time I was chomping, I was ready to get back here and be out on the grass with the players.”
Although Pederson was asymptomatic, he still had to wait the minimum 10 days and produce multiple negative tests before being allowed to return. He has also acknowledged the team's efforts to double down on safety precautions for the coaching staff by having them coach in masks or face shields.
The Eagles were in good hands during Pederson's absence with assistant head coach and running backs coach Duce Staley taking over head coaching duties.
Regardless, having everything back in order should help kick things up a notch in camp as they prepare to defend their NFC East title in the 2020 NFL season.
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