CLEVELAND, Ohio (92.3 The Fan) – The Browns placed quarterback Baker Mayfield on the reserve COVID-19 list Sunday morning.
Mayfield was placed on the list as a precaution after coming in close contact with a staff member that tested positive on Saturday according to the team.
The team 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 positive test is the first for the organization since the start of training camp and no player or coach has tested positive for the virus since training camp practices began in August.
Under NFL guidelines and protocols, Mayfield will be allowed to practice as early as Wednesday if he continues to test negative for the virus. He is required to remain in isolation for five days with daily testing.
Mayfield and the Browns last practiced on Nov. 4 but have undergone daily testing during the bye in accordance with league protocols.
The Browns, who are 5-3 and currently the seventh seed in the AFC playoff picture, are expected to host the Houston Texans next Sunday at FirstEnergy Stadium.
Mayfield has completed 61.4% of his passes for 1,514 yards with 15 touchdowns and seven interceptions this season.