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NFL Teams Navigate COVID-19 Outbreaks as Scheduled Games Approach

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, New England Patriots, and Jacksonville Jaguars face COVID-19 outbreaks before scheduled games on Sunday, despite some players being placed on the reserve list. The Patriots have been severely impacted, with recent positive tests affecting their team and the cancellation of their Friday practice. The Jaguars have also taken precautions, closing their practice facility and working remotely as a precaution after a practice squad player tested positive. Players who have tested positive, including Newton and Gilmore of the Patriots, have returned to practice and appear to be on track to play.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, New England Patriots, and Jacksonville Jaguars all have players on the COVID-19 reserve list.
  • The Patriots had recently cancelled their bye week, moving it from Week 6 to Week 5, and were scheduled to play the Broncos on Sunday.
  • A practice squad player for the Patriots tested positive for COVID-19, leading to the cancellation of their Friday practice.
  • The Jaguars have taken precautions, closing their practice facility and working remotely after a practice squad player tested positive.
  • Players who have tested positive, including Newton and Gilmore, have returned to practice and appear to be on track to play.
  • The Patriots' running backs coach, Curtis Modkins, has tested positive and will not make the trip to New England.
  • The Jacksonville Jaguars said a practice squad player has tested positive for the coronavirus and they plan to play as scheduled.

Statistics:

  • The Patriots have had at least one player placed on the COVID-19 reserve list in each of the last three games.
  • The Jaguars have had 5 players test positive for COVID-19 since the start of the season.
  • The Patriots have had 12 days without a game, the longest drought in the league this season.
  • 4 NFL teams are affected by COVID-19 breakthroughs, impacting scheduled games on Sunday.

Sources:

  • "The Patriots will be canceling their Friday practice after a positive COVID-19 test, per a source." - ESPN's Mike Reiss and Field Yates
  • "Curtis is now at home in self-isolation and experiencing no symptoms." - The Jaguars
  • "We plan to play tomorrow's game as scheduled" - The Patriots

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