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We knew COVID-19 would affect the 2020 NFL season, and we have already seen a few players placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list, including linebacker Foye Oluokun and defensive tackle Tyeler Davison, who have since been re-activated to the 80-man roster.
The Atlanta Falcons announced today that safety Chris Cooper has become the newest addition to the reserve/COVID-19 list. This doesn’t necessarily mean Cooper has tested positive, as he could just be quarantined for possible contact with someone who may have the illness.
We have placed S Chris Cooper on the reserve/COVID-19 list. https://t.co/rNQeAHYJM5
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) August 9, 2020
Due to league policy, NFL teams are not allowed to disclose whether or not a player has tested positive for COVID-19 or is just being quarantined. Teams are are only allowed to comment on a player’s roster status, such as being placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list.
With Cooper being added to the list, that now makes three current Falcons on the reserve/COVID-19 list including fullback Keith Smith and safety Jamal Carter, who reportedly tested positive and has been in quarantine. Cooper is competing for a reserve role as a versatile safety and cornerback and hopes to latch on with the team, so hopefully he’ll be back soon.
With the recent re-signing of saftey J.J. Wilcox, the Falcons roster now sits at 79 players. I would expect in the near future a free agent to be signed or either Smith or Carter to be re-activated to team’s 80-man roster.