James Stewart is the only Essendon player deemed to have been a close contact of Essendon's Conor McKenna, who tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday, as a result of a Department of Health and Human Services investigation.

The news comes as the Bombers were told on Tuesday morning that all players and staff returned negative tests after being tested at Marvel Stadium on Monday afternoon.

It means the Bombers could still field a close to full-strength side against Carlton on Saturday night.

Despite the negative test results, someone who comes into close contact with a person who has tested positive is required to quarantine for 14 days. This is due to an incubation period, where someone can test negative but still carry the virus.

The AFL is set to address the matter later on Tuesday.

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