Patriots place Michel, Mason on reserve/COVID-19 list

The New England Patriots placed running back Sony Michel, right guard Shaq Mason, and defensive end Derek Rivers on the reserve/COVID-19 list heading into Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos.

The moves are not all the result of new positive COVID-19 tests within the organization, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. The NFL added a new "high-risk" close-contact category to its virus protocols, under which any player who's designated as such must isolate for five days.

Michel tested positive Saturday, a source told The Athletic's Jeff Howe. Mason and Rivers haven't tested positive but were deemed high risk due to close contact.

New England incurred its latest COVID-19 scare Friday upon discovering one new positive test, plus a second that required confirmation. The club closed its facilities for multiple days beginning Oct. 11 to stop a potential spread within the building.

The league is reportedly aware of the Patriots' situation and comfortable that protocols have been followed. As a result, Sunday's game against Denver will proceed as scheduled.

Michel is already on injured reserve with a quad injury, and Mason missed Week 4 with a calf ailment.