The Denver Broncos are dealing with another COVID-19 issue.
NFL Network's Mike Garafolo and Tom Pelissero reported Friday morning that the Broncos are canceling practice following a positive COVID-19 test.
The team later confirmed it will be meeting virtually Friday after a player and two staff members tested positive. It's the third time the team has had to cancel practice due to COVID-19 issues.
"Following confirmed positive COVID-19 test results from one player and two staff members, the Denver Broncos have closed UCHealth Training Center today with the team's safety in mind," the team said in a statement. "The Broncos will continue preparation for Sunday's game remotely with virtual meetings and have postponed today's practice. Working closely with medical experts and the league office, we will take all steps necessary to ensure the well-being of the players, coaches and staff."
On Thursday, Denver placed QB Jeff Driskel on the reserve/COVID-19 list. NFL Network's James Palmer reported at the time that starting signal-caller Drew Lock was not considered a close contact and could continue to practice.
The Broncos were permitted by the NFL to practice Thursday as contact tracing was performed, coach Vic Fangio told reporters.
A day later, practice is canceled. Denver (4-6) is slated to host the New Orleans Saints (8-2) on Sunday afternoon.
- The Los Angeles Rams canceled practice Friday out of an "abundance of caution," the team announced. Two members of the Rams organization had COVID-19 results that required further testing, NFL Network's Steve Wyche reported. Those results led to the cancellation. Sean McVay later announced that one player and one staff member tested positive Thursday night, but both have tested negative twice after being re-tested.
- The Cincinnati Bengals announced they will face the Giants on Sunday without defensive line coach Nick Eason and secondary coach Steve Jackson due to COVID-19 related reasons. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo will assume Jackson's responsibilities for the game, while defensive assistant Gerald Chatman will assume Eason's.
- The Arizona Cardinals announced their Dec. 6 home game against the Rams will be closed to the general public based on the latest COVID-19 developments in the state. After not allowing fans to attend the first home game of the season, Arizona allowed a trial run of 750, comprised of family from players and staff, in Week 3. That number increased to 1,200 fans in Week 7 and then 4,200 fans each for Weeks 9 and 10.
