The NFL announced that Thursday's game between the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers is being moved to Sunday due to concerns surrounding COVID-19.
"This decision was made out of an abundance of caution to ensure the health and safety of players, coaches and game day personnel and in consultation with medical experts," the NFL said via a statement.
This is a move that the league was unwilling to make for the San Francisco 49ers ahead of the team's Week 9 contest against the Green Bay Packers when several players landed on the reserve/COVID-19 list. San Francisco was without tackle Trent Williams and wide receivers Kendrick Bourne and Brandon Aiyuk. Deebo Samuel was also on the list but was already ruled out of the game due to a hamstring injury.
The situation forced the 49ers to enter the game with just two healthy wide receivers, one of whom was questionable heading into the matchup, and prompting the elevation of multiple players from the practice squad.
The Packers also had players who landed on the reserve/COVID-19 list before that game.
The NFL played a Thursday Night Game two weeks ago (Packers-49ers) with positive tests on both teams, despite ability to push into weekend. Difference here appears to be continuing positive tests on one team. Precedent and policies evolving each week.
— Andrew Brandt (@AndrewBrandt) November 25, 2020
The difference is the Ravens are dealing with a significantly larger breakout reportedly involving at least 10 positive COVID-19 tests between players, coaches, and support staff, according to CBS Sports.
NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported that the game was not postponed due to the Ravens being shorthanded, but due to the number of players deemed close contacts. The NFL wants a few more days to ensure the spread is contained.
Here is Aiyuk's reaction to the league rescheduling Thursday's game.
L o L https://t.co/LrxLBg28CB
— BA (@THE2ERA) November 25, 2020
San Francisco currently has nine players on the reserve/COVID-19 list. It is unknown if Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Rams could be impacted as well.
The following is a list of 49ers players who are currently on the reserve/COVID-19 list and when they were placed there.
- DL Arik Armstead, Nov 16
- DL Javon Kinlaw, Nov 18
- C Hroniss Grasu, Nov 19
- LB Joe Walker, Nov 19
- WR Brandon Aiyuk, Nov 20
- TE Daniel Helm, Nov 20
- T Trent Williams, Nov 20
- DT D.J. Jones, Nov 23
- DE Jordan Willis, Nov 23
Williams is the only confirmed player to test positive for the virus. Although, it is assumed Armstead did as well.
