Sean Payton becomes the first NFL coach to test positive for coronavirus

Sean Payton, the head coach of the New Orleans Saints has revealed he has tested positive for coronavirus.

The 56-year-old American football coach made the news on Thursday night via his Twitter page.

“Appreciate the well wishes. I’m feeling better and fortunate to not have any of the respiratory symptoms. 4 more days at home. #BEATCovid,” he wrote, referring to the name of the disease caused by the virus.

Appreciate the well wishes. I'm feeling better and fortunate to not have any of the respiratory symptoms. 4 more days at home.#BEATCovid pic.twitter.com/vvjbnqoeZx
— Sean Payton (@SeanPayton) March 19, 2020

Payton also told ESPN that he was publicizing his case because he wants the public to follow the laid down rules to help limit the spread of the virus.

“This is not just about social distancing,” Payton told ESPN. “It’s shutting down here for a week to two weeks. If people understand the curve and understand the bump, we can easily work together as a country to reduce it. Take a minute to understand what the experts are saying. It’s not complicated to do what they’re asking of us. Just that type of small investment by every one of us will have a dramatic impact.

“I was fortunate to be in the minority, without the serious side effects that some have. I’m lucky. Younger people feel like they can handle this, but they can be a carrier to someone who can’t handle it. So we all need to do our part. It’s important for every one of us to do our part.”

Payton’s case makes him the first NFL coach to have tested positive during the global coronavirus pandemic.

“Our primary concern is for Sean’s health and well-being,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a written statement. “He did the right thing by seeking medical attention and we wish him a speedy recovery.

“It shouldn’t come as a surprise as this pandemic continues that members of our NFL family will be directly impacted. This news underscores the importance of everyone following the advice from medical and public health experts to protect themselves and others.”