Detroit Lions close practice facility after multiple positive COVID-19 tests
The Detroit Lions announced that two members of the organization have tested positive for COVID-19 and that the team's practice facilities have been closed as a result.
"As a precaution, the team practice facility is currently closed and our players and coaches are conducting meetings remotely today," the Lions announced. "As we adhere to our Intensive Protocols and conduct contact tracing, we will continue to communicate closely with the NFL and its medical staff and gather more information."
The Lions' scheduled matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Saturday, Dec. 26 has not been canceled or rescheduled, and as long as there is no outbreak, the game should be played without any delay.
This is not the Lions' first run-in with COVID-19. Back in November, the team placed three players on the reserve/COVID-19 list, including quarterback Matthew Stafford. The veteran quarterback did not test positive but was considered a close contact with someone who did, forcing him to be placed on the list. However, Stafford did not miss any games despite his placement on the list.
The NFL has consistently dealt with teams having positive COVID tests, relying on frequent testing and strict protocol to prevent outbreaks. The results have been mixed, at best, but with only two weeks left in the regular season, the league is likely to simply try to push through without making any major changes to the schedule. The league has reportedly considered implementing a bubble strategy for the playoffs, though that seems unlikely at this point.
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