The Carolina Panthers are returning from a bye week to COVID-19 issues.
Receivers DJ Moore and Curtis Samuel among eight players added to the team's reserve/COVID-19 list, the team announced Monday.
The Panthers previously announced that their facility would be closed Monday and Tuesday.
In addition to Moore and Samuel, defensive tackles Derrick Brown and Zach Kerr, linebacker Shaq Thompson, offensive tackle Greg Little and punter Michael Palardy (who is currently on IR) were also placed on the team's COVID-19 list. Wide receiver Ishmael Hyman was placed on the team's practice squad/COVID-19 list.
NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reports that Moore tested positive for the novel coronavirus, while Samuel is considered a close contact.
If Moore and Samuel are unable to play this coming weekend, it would wipe out key weapons for Teddy Bridgewater and the Panthers' spunky offense as they take on the Denver Broncos stellar defense.
Moore also left Week 12's loss to Minnesota after suffering an ankle injury late. Coach Matt Rhule noted X-rays were negative on the ankle, giving the wideout a chance to return after the bye week. Now Moore is dealing with a different issue that could keep him out.
