Three more Patriots join COVID injury list
The Patriots went back to work Saturday in preparation for their twice-postponed game against the Broncos, even as they added three more players to the COVID-19 injury list.
Offensive lineman Shaquille Mason and defensive lineman Derek Rivers were added to the list Saturday, as was running back Sony Michel, who already was on injured reserve with a leg injury. The moves come a day after center James Ferentz was added to the COVID-19 list, prompting the team to cancel practice Friday and close its facility.
A Patriots spokesman said the team would proceed with its walkthrough, but all meetings would be virtual. There was no word on any Saturday testing.
The Broncos had coronavirus news of their own Saturday. Running backs coach Curtis Modkins tested positive and won’t make the trip. He’s in isolation and has no symptoms.
The team also will be without running back Melvin Gordon because of strep throat, according to Denver TV station KUSA. Phillip Lindsay is expected to see more action in Gordon’s absence.
The Broncos-Patriots game, originally scheduled for Oct. 11 and then pushed back one day, was rescheduled for Sunday. Jags put 12 on practice-squad COVID list
After a practice-squad player tested positive, the Jaguars put 12 players on the practice-squad COVID-19 list, 11 of them because they have been in close proximity with the infected teammate.
It benefitted the team that it separates practice-squad players from those on the 53man roster, creating an extra level of protection to help prevent an outbreak.
The Jaguars also put defensive end Josh Mauro on the COVID-19 injury list. He had been suspended the first five weeks of the regular season but rejoined the team Monday and spent the week with the practice squad. Browns WR Beckham cleared to play
Browns wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. had his second negative COVID-19 test in 24 hours, clearing him to rejoin his teammates and play in Sunday’s game at Pittsburgh.
Beckham was kept away from the team’s facility and didn’t practice for two days after feeling ill Thursday and being sent home. In keeping with NFL coronavirus protocol, he had to twice test negative before being allowed back.
The Browns (4-1) listed Beckham as questionable to face the unbeaten Steelers (4-0) at Heinz Field. While he didn’t practice, the three-time Pro Bowler participated in team meetings remotely. In other moves ...
The Lions activated guard Joe Dahl from injured reserve and promoted quarterback David Blough from the practice squad to the active roster. They also elevated tight end Isaac Nauta from the practice squad and released cornerback Chris Jones.
The Jets activated wide receiver Vyncint Smith and linebacker Blake Cashman from injured reserve. They also elevated quarterback Mike White from the practice squad to serve as Joe Flacco’s backup.