Broncos DC Ed Donatell returns home after COVID-19 hospitalization

In a change of pace, there's some good news as it pertains to the NFL and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Denver Broncos confirmed on Wednesday that defensive coordinator Ed Donatell is back home recovering after being taken to the hospital last week due to complications related to his bout with the coronavirus. He's participating in virtual meetings and starting light physical activity, but no timetable for his return to in-person team activities was mentioned.

Donatell missed Denver's win over the Los Angeles Chargers on Nov. 1 because he was in the league's COVID-19 protocols, and it was later confirmed that the 63-year-old who wasn't on the sidelines during losses to the Atlanta Falcons and Las Vegas Raiders tested positive for the virus.

Per Mike Klis of 9News, Broncos linebacker Alexander Johnson unintentionally revealed the news of Donatell's hospitalization while speaking with reporters on Wednesday. 

“Obviously, when your defensive coordinator is down and out of commission it’s tough,’’ Johnson explained. "I know he was in the hospital and stuff, so I’m definitely sending my prayers up. We’re definitely missing him—just his morale and the energy that he has being at practice and always preaching on working on takeaways and stuff like that. So, definitely notice a difference not having him out here.”

Head coach Vic Fangio calls defensive plays for the Broncos but considers Donatell his "right-hand man," according to Klis. 

The Broncos (3-6) will host the Dolphins (6-3) on Sunday afternoon.