And then there were ... eight.
The New England Patriots are placing three more players -- running back Sony Michel, offensive guard Shaq Mason and defensive end Derek Rivers -- on their COVID-19/reserve list, ESPN's Field Yates reported Saturday.
Quarterback Cam Newton was the first Patriots player to hit the COVID-19/reserve list prior to New England's Week 4 game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Defensive tackle Bill Murray and cornerback Stephon Gilmore joined Newton on the list the following week and defensive tackle Byron Cowart tested positive for COVID-19 last Sunday, forcing the Patriots to reschedule their game against the Denver Broncos from Week 5 to Week 6.