2 min read • December 30, 2021
Posted in
Despite testing positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, Colts starting quarterback Carson Wentz will return to start this Sunday against the Raiders.
ProFootballDoc, Dr. David Chao, projects that every player who was placed on the COVID reserve list Monday or Tuesday this week is likely to clear COVID protocols in time to play Sunday.
Wentz, who is unvaccinated, is a key beneficiary of the NFL's new, more lenient COVID protocols. Under the previous rules, Wentz would have been out a full 10 days after testing positive.
With the new protocols, the former Eagles quarterback has to meet the following criteria:
- 5 days since initial positive swab
- At least 24 hours since last fever
- Other symptoms (e.g. cough) "resolved or improved"
- Cleared by team doctor in consultation with ICS and NFL
Since Wentz was placed on the COVID reserve list Tuesday, he either tested positive Monday or early Tuesday morning. Either way, he will meet the five day requirement.
As long as he doesn't have a fever and any symptoms are improving, he will be under center against the Raiders. If Wentz has worsening symptoms or a fever, rookie Sam Ehlinger would get his first career start.
The Colts are also likely to get right tackle Braden Smith back since he was placed on the list Monday.
Indianapolis (9-6) currently sits fifth in the AFC and one game behind the Titans in the AFC South. They face a Las Vegas team also fighting for a wildcard spot at 8-7.
Written by
