Lions quarterback Stafford goes on reserve/COVID-19 list

DETROIT » One of the NFL’s standout quarterbacks is now on the reserve/COVID-19 list.

Matthew Stafford was put on the list by the Detroit Lions, according to the league’s transactions report Saturday. The reserve/COVID-19 list was created for players who either test positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with an infected person. Stafford, 32, is easily one of the most high-profile players to land there.

The Lions, citing NFL-NFLPA policy, have not been commenting on the medical status of players on that list. Stafford is entering his 12th season with Detroit after being drafted by the Lions with the No. 1 overall pick in 2009.

Stafford’s wife Kelly had surgery last year to remove a brain tumor.

Also Saturday, Seattle put guard Chance Warmack on the reserve/ opt-out list, and Dallas put defensive back Saivion Smith on the reserve/COVID-19 list.

Jacksonville defensive end Lerentee McCray went on the reserve/ opt-out list too.

Brees will stand for anthem, but won’t criticize

NEW ORLEANS » Saints quarterback Drew Brees says he’ll remain standing for “The Star Spangled Banner,” but professed respect and support for those who protest racism and social injustice by kneeling during the national anthem.

“I’ll always stand for the flag because of what it means to me and to honor all those who have sacrificed, who have served and died for our country, and all those who have struggled to move this country forward,” Brees said Saturday in a conference call with reporters to discuss the onset of training camp.

“I acknowledge and respect anyone who chooses to kneel or any other form of peaceful protest to bring attention to social injustice and systemic racism that so many have endured and continue to endure in our country,” Brees said.

But before he even took a question, Brees opened with a statement about his introspection since early June, when he became seen by many as a symbol of white privilege for saying he would never approve of anyone disrespecting the flag by kneeling during the anthem.

Sources: Jets LB Mosley opting out

NEW YORK » Jets linebacker C.J. Mosley has opted out of playing this season because of family health concerns, two people familiar with the decision said.

The 28-year-old Mosley was entering his second season with New York after signing as a free agent in 2019 following five years in Baltimore.