The NFL has officially rescheduled the New England Patriots’ fifth-week game with the Denver Broncos, which will now be played on Sunday, October 18, told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Another Patriots player tried COVID-19 on Saturday, according to several reports. The Patriots already had 3 players – QB Cam Newton, CB Stephon Gilmore and DT Bill Murray – on the reserve/COVID list.
The Patriots and Broncos were scheduled to play on Monday, October 12. The adjustment passed on Sunday, October 11, when Gilmore tested positive.
Here’s the NFL announcement:
“The Denver Broncos game against the New England Patriots is scheduled for Monday, October 12 at 5pm, EAST Time, has been postponed. Details of a new game date and time will be announced shortly. Both will now have a five week’s leave of absence.
“This resolution was taken to ensure the physical condition and protection of players, coaches and staff on game day and in consultation with medical experts.
The Patriots planned to take a leave of license in the sixth week, and now it will arrive a week early.
The Broncos were scheduled to face the Miami Dolphins next week, that game will also have to be postponed.
The Patriots did not train until Saturday this week in preparation for their game originally scheduled for Week 5, with the facilities closed Wednesday through Friday. They had to set up a guided tour on Sunday when they closed the assets.
Patriots players did not seem happy with the NFL’s initial plan to play Monday’s game despite the fourth COVID case on the list.
Sunday’s news comes a day after Patriots corner Jason McCourty denounced the NFL and NFL Players Association for worrying about player safety.