The Detroit Lions announced they have placed quarterback Matthew Stafford on the reserve/COVID-19 list.
After placing Jarrad Davis on the reserve/COVID-19 list on Tuesday, Stafford becomes the second player the Lions have had to place on the list this season.
Update per Adam Schefter: Stafford falls into the “high-risk close contact” category from a contact on Monday. As long as he began his minimum 5-days isolation immediately AND continues to test negative, it’s possible he could be cleared for Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings.
Lions' QB Matthew Stafford is considered a "high-risk, close contact" from a non team member, per source. His last contact was Monday, which means he would be eligible to come off the Resvere/COVID list Sunday and play vs. the Vikings, pending negative tests for him, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 4, 2020
The #Lions have to fly Matthew Stafford on a private plane to Minnesota because he'll still be in the five-day isolation window when the team departs Saturday, per source. He also can't practice all week. But as long as he tests negative and no COVID symptoms, he can play Sunday.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 4, 2020
It was reported by The Athletic’s Chris Burke — this week’s pool reporter — that Chase Daniel and David Blough were taking reps during the portions of practice available to the media, so it’s unclear who would start this Sunday if Stafford can’t play.
The Lions released the following statement with their confirmation:
This reserve list category was created for a player who either tests positive for COVID-19 or who has been quarantined after having been in close contact with an infected person or persons. If a player falls into either of these categories, their club is required to immediately place the player on the reserve/COVID-19 list. Per agreed upon NFL-NFLPA policy, clubs are not permitted t comment on a player’s medical status other than referring to roster status. Clubs may not disclose whether player is in quarantine or is positive for COVID-19.