David Blais
Asst. Sports Editor
On Friday, the New England Patriots had to shut down their practice facility after another player tested positive for COVID-19. The player was offensive lineman James Ferentz, who played every snap of the most recent Patriots game against the Chiefs. Ferentz was placed on the COVID/Reserve list for the Patriots. This is the fourth player for New England to test positive with quarterback Cam Newton, cornerback Stephon Gilmore and practice squad player Bill Murray all being on the list. However, these players have also been removed from the COVID/Reserve list and participated in practice this past Thursday.
The Denver Broncos will travel to New England Saturday as scheduled for Sunday’s matchup. When asked about the game, the Denver Broncos head coach, Vic Fangio, said "We are under the assumption and understanding that this game is going to go off on time. Anything that happens otherwise will happen when it happens." The Denver Broncos have been fortunate enough to not have any positive COVID-19 cases. The team however has been plagued with injuries all season losing their star linebacker Von Miller and starting quarterback Drew Lock. Denver’s starting halfback, Melvin Gordon, will not be playing this Sunday as a result of an “...illness…” but has been confirmed to not be COVID-19.
Heading into this Sunday the Patriots are looking to improve their 2-2 record while the Broncos are looking to gain some sense of hope with a mediocre 1-3 record. Kickoff at Gillette Stadium will be at 1 p.m. Sunday.