GLENDALE, Ariz. — The first text message that hit Frank Reich’s phone on Christmas morning seemed like good news.
A Colts team that had been losing starters for three consecutive days due to positive COVID-19 tests initially had a clear report on game day.
“And then all of a sudden, we weren’t good,” Reich said.
The second text message hit hard. Indianapolis was forced to put All-Pro linebacker Darius Leonard, wide receiver Zach Pascal and strong safety Khari Willis on the reserve/COVID-19 list, the same place the Colts put All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson, guard Mark Glowinski, cornerback Rock Ya-Sin, defensive end Kemoko Turay and practice squad tight end Farrod Green earlier this week.