The New York Giants are expected to place guard Will Hernandez on the Reserve/COVID-19 list after his test came back positive on Thursday.
Hernandez is the first Giant to test positive for the virus during the regular season.
“Late last night, we were notified that a Giants player tested positive for COVID-19. The player was immediately self-isolated, and the contact tracing process was initiated,” the team said in a statement.
“All of the player’s close contacts were identified and were informed to remain home today. Those individuals will participate in meetings remotely. We are working closely with the NFL’s Chief Medical Officer regarding next protocol steps.
“Quest Diagnostics Training Center will remain open, and the rest of the team will follow their normal practice and meeting schedule.”
Reports are that Monday night’s game against Tampa Bay at MetLife Stadium is not currently in jeopardy. However, should additional positive tests come back, it would put the NFL in a precarious position as all facilities are scheduled to be closed on Tuesday to Election Day.
“We’re expecting to play Monday night, and that’s our mindset,” head coach Joe Judge told reporters.
Meanwhile, the players and coaches identified as “close contacts” could be back at the facility tomorrow if there are no negative tests and no symptoms.
All but four of the Giants’ offensive linemen have been told to stay home, as well as a practice squad player who did not play the offensive line. Outside linebackers coach Bret Bielema and defensive backs coach Jerome Henderson were also sent home.
For those questioning, Hernandez was not part of the Daniel Jones/Saquon Barkley outing in which participants were seen in a large group not wearing masks.
Will Hernandez was not part of the group outing last weekend in Manhattan, where Daniel Jones, Saquon Barkley, Sterling Shepard and other Giants players were seen on video, maskless, at a private bar following dinner.
— Paul Schwartz (@NYPost_Schwartz) October 29, 2020
