Cam Newton’s taking part in Patriots virtual meetings

Cam Newton might not be able to practice with his Patriots teammates, but the quarterback is still preparing with his teammates this week.

The Patriots placed Newton on the Covid-19/Reserve list after the 31-year-old tested positive for coronavirus. That list makes it so he isn’t allowed in the team building or practice field. However, he can still take part in team meetings if they happen virtually.

Since Stephon Gilmore also tested positive on Wednesday, [...]

Cam Newton might not be able to practice with his Patriots teammates, but the quarterback is still preparing with his teammates this week.

The Patriots placed Newton on the Covid-19/Reserve list after the 31-year-old tested positive for coronavirus. That list makes it so he isn’t allowed in the team building or practice field. However, he can still take part in team meetings if they happen virtually.

Since Stephon Gilmore also tested positive on Wednesday, that’s how the Patriots are currently preparing for the Denver Broncos. That’s why Bill Belichick said on Wednesday that Newton was able to join in on team meetings this week.

"In virtual meetings? Yeah, sure. Why not?" Belichick said. "Anybody that’s tested positive wouldn’t be allowed to be in any in-person meetings until they’re cleared medically. That’s that. In terms of virtual meetings, yeah. Absolutely."

After the Patriots third positive test, the NFL shut down Gillette Stadium and the Patriots practices on Wednesday and Thursday. At this point, it’s unknown if the Pats will practice on Friday. If they do, it’s possible that Newton could return. The NFL revised its rules recently and if a player is asymptomatic, they need two negative test results 24 hours apart. When that happens, the player needs clearance from the team’s medical staff and the NFL’s medical staff.

Newton is reportedly asymptomatic. We just don’t know if he’s tested negative for the virus.

"I haven’t talk to him a day, so I’m not sure," Belichick said when asked how Newton was doing. "I don’t have anything current for you."

Newton sat out the Patriots loss in Kansas City as both Brian Hoyer and Jarrett Stidham struggled. It’s unknown who the Patriots would start if Newton can’t play this weekend.

mdaniels@providencejournal.com

On Twitter: @MarkDanielsPJ