What It Means:

Newton, who was placed on the COVID-19/reserve list on Saturday, is reportedly asymptomatic and could be cleared to return after a minimum of five days. Clearance would require Newton to return two negative tests back-to-back. Considering these factors, according to Rapoport, Newton returning in time to play against Denver in Week 5 is "far-fetched". It is "possible but not likely". If Newton is unavailable, either Brian Hoyer or Jarrett Stidham will start against the Broncos.

Despite the uncertainty at quarterback, the Patriots are 11.0-point favorites against the Broncos in Week 5. Their implied team total of 29.75 points is the fifth-highest team total on Sunday's main slate, according to numberFire's DFS Heat Map.