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On Tuesday, the Bucs announced that head coach Bruce Arians has tested positive for COVID-19. Arians, who is vaccinated, is isolating at home. He released a statement via the Buccaneers on Tuesday afternoon.
“I tested positive for COVID-19 this morning, but have only experienced mild symptoms to this point,” said Arians. “Harold Goodwin will take over my duties during my absence. I have complete confidence in him and the rest of our coaching staff to prepare the team for this week’s game against the Jets. I look forward to rejoining the team and being back in the facility as soon as I can test back in.”
Arians is the second-oldest head coach in the NFL at 69 years old. Given the fact that he’s a more high-risk demographic, it’s great that he’s experiencing only mild symptoms right now. On Monday, wide receivers coach Kevin Garver entered COVID protocols too. Bucs assistant head coach and run game coordinator Harold Goodwin will serve as the Bucs shot-caller in Arians’ absence.
Meanwhile, the Bucs secondary continues to take hits. Cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting moved to the COVID list, joining Jamel Dean. Wide receiver Mike Evans, wide receiver Jaelon Darden and defensive tackle Rakeem Nunez-Roches were already on the list. However, wide receiver Breshad Perriman cleared COVID protocol and returned to the roster.
The Bucs also announced they are waiving safety Chris Cooper from the practice squad. The move opens a spot for new signee Elijah Ponder to join the team following an injury to Shaq Barrett.
Information from a Bucs press release was used in this report.