Washington Football Team quarterback Dwayne Haskins has apologised for a reported COVID-19 protocol breach, following Monday's (NZ time) loss to the Seattle Seahawks.
Photos surfaced on social media this week showing Haskins apparently partying in a strip club without wearing a mask.
"I want to publicly apologize for my actions this past Sunday. I spoke with Coach (Ron) Rivera yesterday and took full accountability for putting the team at risk. It was irresponsible and immature of me and I accept responsibility for my action," Haskins posted on Twitter.
"I also want to apologize for creating a distraction for my team during our playoff push. I will learn and grow from this and do what's best for the team moving forward."
The NFL Network reported that team officials are handling the matter internally after discussions with the league on Monday.
Under the NFL's COVID-19 protocol, going to a nightclub without wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) is punishable by a maximum fine of one week's salary or up to a four-game suspension.
Haskins, 23, was reportedly fined nearly US$5,000 by the team in October for a previous protocol violation for making a reservation for a family friend at the team hotel.
Haskins, the No. 15 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, made his first start since Week 4 on Sunday. He completed 38 of 55 passes for 295 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in the 20-15 home loss to Seattle.
In six games (five starts) this season, Haskins has completed 62.9 percent of his passes for 1,285 yards with five TDs and five picks.
Washington (6-8) holds a one-game lead in the NFC East over the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys heading into Sunday's game with the visiting Carolina Panthers.
Alex Smith could return from a calf injury to make the start Sunday. Taylor Heinicke was the backup for Haskins in the Seattle game.
Reuters
