Cleveland Browns WR Odell Beckham Jr. sent home with unknown illness
The Browns sent Odell Beckham Jr. home with an illness Thursday, and they're on high alert because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I think we've been on high alert," Browns coach Kevin Stefanski said on Zoom before Thursday's practice. "I think that's just 2020. We just make sure that we're following every protocol there is and keep everybody safe.”
Beckham hasn't tested positive for COVID-19, Stefanski said, adding the three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver was sent home out of an "abundance of caution."
Beckham was most recently tested for the coronavirus Thursday, Stefanski said. The Browns will learn the result Friday, if not sooner.
Some other NFL teams have had to temporarily shut down their facilities and games have been postponed due to positive cases.
"With this day and age, you just have to be so careful in this environment," Stefanski said. "So just want to make sure we're being proactive in that regard.
"With how the protocols are, just you have to be careful. So I don't want to assume anything, but with all of our guys, we'll make sure we just follow the protocols and just be safe.”
Stefanski was asked what the Browns (4-1) would be missing if Beckham cannot play Sunday on the road in a big-time AFC North showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-0).
“I don't know if I want to go there yet,” Stefanski said. "Obviously, he's a big part of what we do."
Beckham has caught 21 passes for 294 yards and three touchdowns and rushed three times for 72 yards and a TD this season.
The Browns are practicing in their field house Thursday because of inclement weather in the forecast, so media will not be permitted to view any portion of the session.