Fans react to Newton’s positive COVID-19 test, concerned for other players

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — A week ago, his parents gave him the gift of a Cam Newton jersey before the game against the Las Vegas Raiders, this week Sean Masse of Braintree was devastated.

Reports from the NFL Network and ESPN Saturday said Patriots starting quarterback Cam Newton had tested positive for COVID-19 and, as a result, the Patriots would not board the team buses and fly to Kansas City for Sunday’s tilt against the Chiefs. Instead, the NFL announced the game would be postponed.

When Newton was added to the NFL’s Reserve/COVID-19 list, the news of his positive test was confirmed.

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“It was terrible news,” said Donna Kane of Canton, who bought her husband a Newton jersey as an anniversary gift. She worries about the season as a whole.

“Right now, everybody is living for football, whether its college football or NFL, and the uncertainty just in life, in general, is tough,” she said.

Saturday, Patriot Place was buzzing with activity from the Patriots Pro Shop, to the restaurants; there was a guitar singer playing music in the mall and most people speaking with Boston 25 News were in good spirits despite the Newton news.

“We really like him, we are just hoping he’s going to be okay,” said Emily Rizzitano, who is as impressed by Newton’s play as his fashionable suits.

Her sister, Stephanie, is worried about the rest of the team.

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“It makes me nervous that other teammates might get it because they’re together every day,” added Stephanie Rizzitano of Canton.

Other fans speaking with Boston 25 News said they don’t have high hopes for the game against Kansas City, assuming it is played.

Liz Zeolla said the Patriots have no chance of winning if they start Brian Hoyer – or Jarrett Stidham. Making matters worse, she was hoping to make a big purchase after Sunday.

“I said if he won tomorrow, I was going to go buy the shirt,” she said.

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