Browns’ Javonte Moffat Added to COVID-19 List, Assistant Tests Positive, Facility Re-Opened

Pittsburgh Steelers Cleveland Browns
FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland before a game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns on Jan. 7, 2021. -- Alan Saunders / Steelers Now

The Cleveland Browns added one player to the COVID-19 reserve list and had one additional coach test positive for COVID-19 on Friday, but have been permitted by the NFL to re-open their practice facility and will practice on Friday afternoon, according to a report by Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

The Browns closed their facility on Tuesday after five positive tests, including head coach Kevin Stefanski and Pro Bowl guard Joel Bitonio. The facility remained closed as the Browns missed scheduled practice sessions on Wednesday and Thursday. Two additional players were added to the list on Thursday, including starting safety Ronnie Harrison.

Friday, safety Jovante Moffat was added to the COVID-19 reserve list, joining Harrison and cornerbacks Kevin Johnson and Denzel Ward as defensive backs on the list. Assistant offensive line coach Scott Peters tested positive on Friday, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Despite the positive test, the Browns were given permission to open their facility and have a practice session scheduled for 4:30. They will be able to practice again on Saturday before traveling to Pittsburgh, giving Cleveland two instead of the customary three game-week practices.

Peters and offensive line coach Bill Callahan and Stefanski as coaches that will not be on the sideline on Sunday. Coaching assistant Ryan Cordell is expected to once again coach the Cleveland offensive line. Special teams coordinator Michael Priefer will replace Stefanski as head coach, with offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt calling plays.

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