New England starting quarterback Cam Newton is expected to rejoin the team Thursday when the Patriots return to practice, ESPN reported.
He has been on the COVID-19 reserve list since Oct. 3 after testing positive.
Three other Patriots later tested positive, forcing the postponement of their Week 5 game against the Denver Broncos and the closure of their practice facilities.
Cornerback Stephon Gilmore, defensive tackle Byron Cowart and practice squad DT Bill Murray are the others who landed on the COVID-19 list.
Newton was with his teammates on Wednesday when the Patriots’ practice facilities reopened.
Practicing Thursday would put him in line to start Sunday when the Patriots (2-2) host the Broncos (1-3).
Newton missed just one game due to his positive test. Backup Brian Hoyer started the loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Oct. 5.
Newton, 31, played in the Patriots’ first three games this season, his first in New England. He has completed 68.1 percent of his passes for 714 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. He has also rushed for 149 yards and four touchdowns.
