The Miami Dolphins are dealing with COVID-19 issues ahead of the season opener against the New England Patriots.
NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe reported Monday that the Dolphins placed starting left tackle Austin Jackson and tight end Adam Shaheen on the reserve/COVID-19 list.
The team later confirmed the news, and elevated cornerback Jamal Perry as a replacement.
"I think it's kind of a 'next man up' mentality and that's kind of how we've taken it this morning" Dolphins coach Brian Flores told reporters. "Obviously, those are two players we like, we feel strongly about who are contributors to this team. But we have to assume and move forward as if they won't be with us. We've already re-assessed and said, 'Hey, we're gonna do this, this and this,' and prepare for the next guy to play and contribute."
NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported Shaheen, who is unvaccinated, landed on the list as the result of a positive test. Pelissero added that the 26-year-old has had no major symptoms, but will be required to quarantine because he's unvaccinated, officially ruling him out for Week 1.
It's unclear at this point whether Jackson tested positive or is considered a close contact. This is Shaheen's second time on the COVID list in just over a month.
Shaheen has been staunchly against being vaccinated against COVID-19. Jackson's status is unknown.
Flores said the team will continue to support Shaheen and the rest of the players regardless of the stance regarding the vaccine.
"I would never question Adam's commitment to the team," he said. "Guys have a decision to make. They make it. We support it and move forward."
Vaccinated players who test positive for COVID-19 must be asymptomatic with two negative COVID-19 tests at least 24 hours apart before returning. Unvaccinated players who test positive are required to isolate for at least 10 days regardless of symptoms. Unvaccinated players who are deemed a close contact must isolate for five days and continually test negative before returning to the team facility. Vaccinated players aren't required to isolate due to close contacts.
If Jackson cannot play in the season opener in Foxborough, it would be a massive blow to Miami, especially facing a revamped Pats defense that looked feisty with newcomer Matt Judon during preseason action. If Jackson, a 2020 first-round pick who started 12 games last season, can't play Sunday, Greg Little would likely be in line to get the start.
