By Adam Roberts – 7/23/2021
A Minnesota Vikings assistant coach is out of a job after refusing to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
ESPN’s Courtney Cronin reports Rick Dennison is believed to be the first position coach in the NFL to leave his team after choosing not to get the shot. He served as an assistant coach on the offensive line and was the run-game coordinator. The league is requiring the vaccine for all Tier 1 staff, which includes coaches, front-office executives, equipment managers and scouts. Players are not required to get the vaccine, but face strict protocols during the season, and yesterday the league detailed consequences teams will face if an unvaccinated player causes an outbreak including forfeits and loss of pay for both teams that miss a game.
Cronin says sources have told ESPNÂ Phil Rauscher has been promoted from assistant offensive line coach to fill Dennison’s position. This will certainly be a hot topic when the Vikings report to training camp next week Wednesday.