New England Patriots tackle Marcus Cannon is considering opting out from the 2020 season, according to Karen Guregian of the Boston Herald.
Cannon is “looking at (the opt-out option) critically, and discussing it with his family,” the report states via a person informed of the thinking.
Cannon had a previous bout with cancer as he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma during his rookie season in 2011. With current knowledge of the COVID-19 disease suggesting that individuals with pre-existing conditions appear more susceptible to the virus, it’s not a shock that a player such as Cannon would be seriously considering his options.
Any player electing to opt out of the season will get a $150,000 stipend as a salary advance for sitting out the year with their contract tolling over to 2021. Individuals deemed high risk will get a $350,000 stipend advance.
Cannon has yet to make a final decision, per the report. He is scheduled to enter the 10th year of his career with the Patriots.
