Staffer’s positive virus test forces Chiefs to go remote

The Kansas City Chiefs closed their facility after practice Thursday when an unidentified staff member tested positive for COVID-19, forcing the team to continue its preparations remotely for Sunday’s game against Carolina.

The Chiefs became the third NFL team this week to close its facility due to positive tests. The Texans announced Wednesday night that a player had tested positive and all operations would be conducted virtually on Thursday, and the Bears canceled their Thursday workout when another Bears player tested positive. In addition, the Colts said Thursday one staff member had tested positive for COVID-19 and is under the care of team doctors, though the team still planned to hold practice but conduct team meetings virtually away from headquarters.

The Chiefs have been remarkably clear of positive COVID-19 tests since early in the season, when a player on their practice squad tested positive before a game against New England. Fullback Anthony Sherman recently came off the COVID-19 list. He was placed on it because he had been in close contact with someone who had tested positive.