The San Francisco 49ers announced just an hour-and-a-half before kickoff that one of the team's coaches, offensive line coach John Benton, has tested positive for COVID-19 and will not participate in today's game against Washington at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
"The San Francisco 49ers today were informed that offensive line coach John Benton has tested positive for COVID-19 and will not attend today's game," the 49ers said via a statement issued to the media. "His duties will be absorbed by the offensive coaching staff.
"Benton immediately went into self-quarantine and the team conducted the appropriate contact tracing as part of the NFL's intensive COVID-19 protocol. We will continue to communicate with the League and medical professionals and take the necessary precautions in the best interest of health and safety."
The 49ers hired Benton to coach the offensive line in 2017. He has 33 years of coaching experience, including 16 seasons in the NFL.
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