By Alex Barth, 985TheSportsHub.com
The Patriots had five players in for pre-workout COVID testing on Friday. WR Damion Willis, FB Roosevelt Nix, G Cordel Iwuagwu, T Jordan Steckler, and LB David Reese were all in Foxborough, according to the league’s transaction wire.
NFL COVID rules state players must be tested before working out for teams, so an evaluation is likely to follow. The Patriots regularly work players out during the season, keeping tabs on free agents so they are prepared if there is a rash of injuries.
Willis spent 2019 with the Bengals, catching nine passes for 82 yards. The 6-foot-3, 204 pound receiver spent four days with the Browns during training camp last summer.
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Nix spent the last five seasons with the Steelers, playing extensively on special teams in addition to his fullback role. The 2017 Pro Bowler spent training camp with the Colts.
Iwuagwu is a rookie UDFA out of TCU. He started the season on the Texans’ practice squad but was released in mid-September.
Steckler is another rookie UDFA offensive lineman. The NIU product spent training camp with the Saints but was let go during final roster cuts.
Reese spent time with the Minnesota Vikings during the summer. The Florida product went undrafted in April.
The Patriots and 49ers also turned in their final injury reports of the week ahead of their meeting Sunday. Defensive tackle Carl Davis (concussion) was the only player ruled out for New England. DL Adam Butler (shoulder), DB Kyle Dugger (ankle), Julian Edelman (knee), G Shaq Mason (calf) and DE Derek Rivers (back) are all questionable.
For the Niners, LB Kwon Alexander (ankle), RB Raheem Mostert (ankle), S Jaquiski Tartt (groin), and DB Jimmie Ward (quad) have all been ruled out. Starting right tackle Trent Williams (ankle) is questionable.
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Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at Alexander.Barth@bbgi.com.