Browns put quarterback Baker Mayfield on COVID-19 list
The Cleveland Browns placed quarterback Baker Mayfield on the reserve/COVID-19 list Sunday.
Mayfield went on the list because he is considered a close contact of a staff member who tested positive for the virus Saturday.
The Browns did not disclose the identity of the staff member, but a person familiar with the situation said it's not a coach who tested positive. The person requested anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation.
Mayfield has not tested positive, the person said. If Mayfield continues to test negative, he could be back in Browns headquarters by Wednesday, based on when the exposure took place, the person said.
The Browns released the following statement:
“The Cleveland Browns were informed Saturday morning that a staff member tested positive for COVID-19. Contact tracing was conducted and close contacts were immediately self-isolated. When the team returns to work following the bye on Monday, it will follow the NFL-NFLPA intensive protocol. We will continue to work closely with the league and medical experts on the appropriate next steps with the health and safety of our players, coaches and staff members remaining our highest priority.”
The Browns are resting this weekend during their bye and are scheduled to host the Houston Texans on Nov. 15.
If all goes well for Mayfield, he should be able to return to practice in preparation for the Texans on Wednesday. He won't be permitted to practice Monday, when the Browns plan to return to the field.
Nate Ulrich can be reached at nulrich@thebeaconjournal.com.