CLEVELAND — EDITOR'S NOTE: The press conference above took place Wednesday
The Browns have placed quarterback Baker Mayfield on their reserve/COVID-19 list, the team announced Sunday morning.
The club also confirmed one of its staff members (not a player) has tested positive for the coronavirus, and that close contacts have immediately been asked to self-isolate. Players on the reserve/COVID-19 list have not necessarily tested positive.
A spokesperson from 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."
Per league policy, teams are not allowed to comment on a player's current health situation, and the reserve/COVID-19 list is meant to only refer to a player's roster status. However, ESPN's Jake Trotter reports Mayfield has not tested positive for the virus, and that he only came into contact with the staff member who does have the disease.
The 5-3 Browns are currently on a bye week and are scheduled to face the Houston Texans next Sunday in Cleveland. Mayfield could return to practice as soon as Wednesday if he continues to test negative, according to Trotter.
Once the Browns return to their facilities next week, they will be in the league's "intensive" COVID-19 protocols. This would include increased virus testing and social distancing measures, along with a prohibition on gatherings away from official team activities.