Several players are still working to get back on the field for the Raiders this week. Most notably tackle Trent Brown (reserve/COVID-19), wide receiver Bryan Edwards (foot/ankle), cornerback Damon Arnette (hand), and guard Richie Incognito (Achilles).
Incognito is on injured reserve and Gruden on Monday didn’t seem optimistic he would return this week. He reiterated that on Wednesday, saying “I don’t think he’ll play this week.”
Arnette had been on the reserve/COVID-19 list and he tweeted Tuesday that he is now COVID-free and that his hand is getting better.
Brown was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list last week, causing him to miss last Sunday’s game against the Buccaneers.
I asked Gruden today about the statuses of Brown, Edwards, and Arnette for this game. The only optimism was for Brown’s return this week.
“We’re hoping Trent Brown can get back in the building later this week and possibly play for us,” said Gruden over video conference call. “I’ll have to update you on that in a couple of days but he’s eligible to come back into our facility. Arnette is in here working out. He’s getting close. He can’t resume practice for a couple more days, maybe a week or so. And Edwards did give it a go today. I would say right now it’s doubtful, but it’s good to see Bryan moving around.”
Gruden’s optimism toward Brown suggests the big tackle has possibly passed his COVID tests of late, which would mean he just has to complete the protocol to make it official.
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