Another positive test for Patriots
Keeping an eye on the world of sports during the pandemic:
The Patriots canceled practice Friday after a member of the organization tested positive for COVID-19, a person familiar with the decision told AP.
The person, speaking on condition of anonymity because the team and the NFL did not announce the positive test, did not reveal if it involved a player or a coach.
The Patriots (2-2) already twice had the original Week 5 matchup against the Broncos postponed following four positive coronavirus tests by players, including quarterback Cam Newton and cornerback Stephon Gilmore. The game is scheduled for Sunday in Foxborough, Mass., but now could be in jeopardy.
“I don’t really know the answer,” Broncos coach Vic Fangio said when asked about finally playing the Patriots. “We’re under the assumption and understanding that this game’s going to go off on time.”
Newton and Gilmore, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, returned to practice this week for the first time since testing positive for the coronavirus. Newton missed the Patriots loss in Kansas City after his Oct. 2 positive test. He was activated from the reserve/ COVID-19 l i st on Wednesday.
Newton and Gilmore participated in Thursday’s practice and appeared to be on track to play against the Broncos on Sunday. Asked on Friday how Newton looked in his first practice back, offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels said the 2015 NFL MVP looked “normal, normal.”
Earlier Friday, the Colts closed their practice facility after “several individuals” tested positive for COVID-19, then the retests came back negative and the building reopened.
“Earlier this morning, we were informed that four individuals within the organization tested positive for COVID-19,” the team said in a late-morning statement. “The four positive samples were retested and have been confirmed negative.”