The team released the following statement around 9:45 a.m.:
“The Cleveland Browns were informed of two additional positive COVID-19 test results among our players this morning. The Browns facility is currently closed while contact tracing is conducted to identify any high-risk close contacts. The team will continue to work remotely this morning while following the NFL-NFLPA intensive protocols as the health and safety of our team, staff and the entire community remains our highest priority.”
While the club did not release the names of those who tested positive due to NFL rules, multiple media outlets report the individuals are tight end Harrison Bryant and linebacker Malcolm Smith. As such, both will likely miss Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
So at least four players — Malcolm Smith, Harrison Bryant, LB B.J. Goodson and S Andrew Sendejo — won’t be available Sunday against the #Steelers. Contact tracing and further testing will determine if any others are ruled out, too. https://t.co/qPcC6q9QMq
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 31, 2020
In better news, the team did activate four receivers (including five-time Pro Bowler Jarvis Landry) and one linebacker from the COVID-19 list Thursday. All missed last Sunday’s loss to the New York Jets due to health protocols, but are expected to play this weekend against Pittsburgh.