BEREA, Ohio — Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the media via Zoom on Friday afternoon in the aftermath of defensive end Myles Garrett being placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list.
Although the team would not confirm if Garrett is that player that tested positive for coronavirus, Cleveland.com Browns beat reporter and 3News contributor May Kay Cabot is reporting that it indeed was Garrett who tested positive.
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Garrett will not be in action this Sunday when the Browns host the Philadelphia Eagles. As far as when we might expect to see the NFL's sack leader back, Stefanski offered no specifics. "It remains to be seen," he said when asked.
In Garrett's place, Stefanski says the Browns will use a rotation of players at defensive end, including Adrian Clayborn and Porter Gustin. Defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson may also be available to slide to the outside.
"He's a good player and we know that," Stefanski added of Garrett. "We don't want to be without him, but we are. I promise you that the guys will be ready to go without him."
Garrett leads the NFL with 9.5 sacks and has also posted a league-high of four forced fumbles.
The Browns announced the news of Garrett being placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list on Friday morning.
“Contact tracing has been conducted and the individual has self-isolated,” the team said in a statement. “He has not been in the facility all week and zero high-risk contacts have been identified.”
The Browns said their facility remains open at this time and Friday’s practice remains as scheduled.
“As part of the NFL-NFLPA intensive protocols, all meetings this morning will take place remotely. The team will continue to consult with the league and medical experts on any appropriate next steps as the health and safety or our players, coaches, staff and the entire community remains our highest priority.”
The team told 3News on Thursday they are still permitted to welcome up to 12,000 fans at home games despite Cuyahoga County's stay-at-home advisory.
