Detroit Lions WR Geronimo Allison explains why he opted-out

As the NFL finally set the deadline for NFL players to voluntarily opt-out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 concerns, one Detroit Lions players who has already made that decision explained why. Wide receiver Geronimo Allison went to social media over the weekend to tell his fans why he didn’t want to risk playing football this year.

“One of the greatest joys of my life has been playing professional football. I wasn’t sure anything could ever top that until my wife and I welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world, just a few months ago.

I reported to training camp as a new dad, hopeful to play this season. However, with still so much uncertainty around this very scary virus and the intense desire to protect the health and well-being of my family, I have decided to opt out of this season.

I want to thank the Detroit Lions organization, the Ford Family, and the National Football League for allowing me to play the game I love and supporting me through this unbelievably difficult decision. I am looking forward to next season.”

This explains some of the inner turmoil these players are going through. Allison reported to camp last week intending to play, but, ultimately, the importance of keeping his family as safe as possible from COVID-19 took priority.

Allison’s one-year, $1.05 million contract will now toll to next year, meaning he’s essentially off the books for the Lions in 2020 and will get a chance to compete for a roster spot next season. Depending on whether the NFL views him as a high-risk COVID-19 candidate or not, Allison will either receive a $350,000 stipend or a $150,000 salary advance this year.