Report: Newton tests positive for COVID-19, Patriots-Chiefs delayed

New England Patriots quarterback Cam Newton tested positive for COVID-19 and won't be available versus the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 4, reports ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The NFL postponed the game that was originally slated for Sunday afternoon with plans to stage it Monday or Tuesday, and the league confirmed both teams produced a positive test. The league isn't expected to determine a new date until it receives more test results from both clubs on Sunday, sources told Schefter.

Jordan Ta'amu, a practice squad quarterback, was the Chiefs player who tested positive, reports NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

The Patriots were expected to fly to Kansas City around 1 p.m. ET, but their departure was delayed and players were sent home from the team facility as they awaited more test results, according to Schefter.

"Late last night, we received notice that a Patriots player tested positive for COVID-19," the club said Saturday in a statement. "The player immediately entered self-quarantine. Several additional players, coaches, and staff who have been in close contact with the player received point of care tests this morning and all were negative for COVID-19.

"We are in close consultation with the NFL, as well as our team of independent doctors and specialists, and will follow their guidance regarding our scheduled trip to Kansas City and game against the Chiefs. The health and safety of our team, as well as our opponent, are of highest priority."

The NFL was already forced to remove one game from the Week 4 schedule, rebooking the Tennessee Titans-Pittsburgh Steelers affair for Week 7 because of a COVID-19 outbreak on the Titans.

If the contest proceeds without him, Newton will be the first NFL starting quarterback to miss a game due to the coronavirus. New England is reportedly giving Brian Hoyer the start against the Chiefs over Jarrett Stidham.

Newton was off to a strong start through three weeks, leading the Patriots to a 2-1 record while totaling six touchdowns against two turnovers.