NewsCovering Colorado

Actions

Shelby Harris tests positive for COVID-19, will miss Raiders game

Defensive end tells Denver7 he has no symptoms, 'feels fine'
Shelby Harris tests positive for COVID-19, will miss Raiders game
Posted at 9:21 AM, Nov 11, 2020
and last updated 2020-11-11 15:47:00-05

DENVER -- Broncos standout Shelby Harris told Denver7 he has tested positive for COVID-19, sidelining him for this week's game, if not longer.

"I feel fine. No symptoms," said Harris.

Harris sat out last week against the Falcons while he remained in self-quarantine at a hotel following close contact with someone outside the Broncos' building who contracted the virus. Harris tested negative last week, and was in line to return to practice Wednesday before his positive test. Now, the veteran is sidelined again, and must pass protocol to come back, hopefully by when the Broncos host the Dolphins on Nov. 22 depending how his body responds after missing two weeks of conditioning.

"It's a big blow anytime you lose one of your better players," Broncos coach Vic Fangio said. "I think he's probably having the best season of his career."

Shelby Harris tests positive for COVID-19, will miss Raiders game

It is a deliberate process for Harris to return. Broncos starting right guard Graham Glasgow has missed the past two games after testing positive for COVID-19. He was required to pass a three-day workout test, and will practice Wednesday and should play Sunday without any setbacks.

The Broncos have experienced a rash of positive tests, leaving them in intensive protocol for more than three weeks. Those who have tested positive include CEO Joe Ellis and general manager John Elway -- they are hopeful of being cleared to return to the building this week -- coaches Curtis Modkins, Ed Donatell and Mike Munchak and players Darrin Paulo, Glasgow and Harris and multiple employees.

Harris' positive test will not impact the Broncos' practice schedule as he has been isolated from the team. The Broncos have had their schedule disrupted the last few weeks, leaving them short a practice and using virtual meetings.

In the case of Harris, this is an example of the player and organization following the correct steps. Harris self-reported his close contact, which cost him a game, but prevented him from putting his teammates at risk. Since Harris has not been around the team, the Broncos are able to move forward, though the defensive end will be missed.

In his fourth season in Denver, Harris, 29, has 23 tackles, eight for a loss, 2.5 sacks, a blocked field goal, while continuing his mastery of deflecting passes.

Footnotes
The Broncos received good news on the injury front: starting cornerback A.J. Bouye has cleared the concussion protocol. He will practice today along with Bryce Callahan, whose ankle injury has improved. Both are expected to start against the Raiders. Tight end Noah Fant (ankle) and Diontae Spencer (shoulder) will also practice. ...

I asked Fangio how quarterback Drew Lock has dealt with the roller-coaster season. "I think he’s handled it well. Obviously, he’s a young player at a high profile position. He’s going to have to handle the ups and downs. The key for him to improve is getting continuous game reps. We need him to play all of the reps this season." ...

Fangio said cornerback De'Vante Bausby, claimed off waivers on Tuesday, will not be available this week because of the COVID-19 protocols. "We really didn't want to cut him, it was injuries, special teams, COVID issues. We are happy to have him back and get him in the mix (next week)."