Giants expect to play vs. Bucs despite Hernandez's reported positive test
A New York Giants player tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday, the team announced Thursday, but head coach Joe Judge doesn't believe Monday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have to be postponed.
“We are expecting to play Monday night," said Judge, per Bob Glauber of Newsday Sports.
Guard Will Hernandez is the player who will be placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list, sources told Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
As a result, the Giants reportedly quarantined all but four members of their offensive line.
Outside linebackers coach Bret Bielema and defensive backs coach Jerome Henderson were also sent home, according to Rapoport.
"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."
The #Giants are scheduled to host the #Bucs on Monday night. The timing of close contact for the others, and whether they are considered "high risk" exposures, will determine whether they can be cleared in time to play. https://t.co/swRniDnUo5
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 29, 2020
The NFL requires teams to have eight offensive linemen available for games.