Report: Lions facing possible roster shortage ahead of Broncos game

The Detroit Lions are facing a potential roster crunch ahead of Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Detroit placed six players on the COVID-19 reserve this week. The team also encountered a flu outbreak that affected 12 other players and six coaches over the last few days, Schefter reports.

A total of 22 players - including several offensive and defensive linemen - were held out of practice Thursday, according to Dave Birkett of Detroit Free Press.

Running back Jamaal Williams, who was expected to start over injured D'Andre Swift, practiced Friday before being placed on the COVID-19 list after a positive test. The Lions are reportedly worried that any person around Williams may have contracted the virus or will be deemed a close contact.

Detroit will continue to test its players Sunday morning before potentially adding more players to the reserve.

Additionally, the Lions have discussed potential measures in case more players are sidelined, including delaying the game to Monday night, per Schefter.

The kickoff between Denver and Detroit is scheduled for 4:05 p.m. ET.