The Cleveland Browns are facing a defensive challenge as they strive for their first playoff appearance since 2020. In a setback, the team has placed two crucial players on the sidelines due to injuries sustained in Sunday’s victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Safety Grant Delpit, the Browns’ leading tackler, has been sidelined with a groin injury and has been designated for injured reserve, ruling him out for at least the remaining four regular-season games. Meanwhile, defensive end Ogbo Okoronkwo, a key contributor with 4.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss, may be sidelined for the rest of the season due to a pectoral injury.
Coach Kevin Stefanski revealed that Delpit, who underwent surgery, could have a chance of returning for the playoffs, offering a glimmer of hope for the team. Delpit, who recently inked a three-year, $36 million contract extension with $23 million guaranteed, leads the Browns with an impressive 80 tackles.
The Browns have been plagued by season-ending injuries throughout the year, with notable players like All-Pro running back Nick Chubb and quarterback Deshaun Watson among those affected. This week, the team announced that both starting offensive tackles, Jedrick Wills Jr. and Dawand Jones, would also miss the remainder of the season due to knee injuries.
Despite the adversity, the Browns, currently holding the No. 5 seed in the AFC wild-card race with an 8-5 record, remain determined. To address the void left by Delpit’s absence, the team signed veteran safety Duron Harmon from their practice squad, reinforcing the roster ahead of their upcoming clash with the Chicago Bears on Sunday.
