Cleveland’s defense took another hit just days after a tough season opener.
On Wednesday, the Browns put four players on injured reserve after they were hurt in the 33-17 loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
Safety Juan Thornhill (calf), tackle Maurice Hurst II, and linebackers Mohamoud Diabate (hip) and Tony Fields II (ankle) will all miss at least four games while on IR.
Thornhill and Hurst were starters in Sunday’s game.
Thornhill’s injury was unexpected because coach Kevin Stefanski didn’t mention it after the game or on Monday. The 28-year-old had one of his best games with the Browns, recording nine tackles, including one for a loss.
Thornhill had calf issues last season after joining the Browns on a three-year, $21 million deal. He played his first four NFL seasons with the Chiefs.
The Browns will play at Jacksonville on Sunday and made several roster moves before Wednesday’s practice.
They activated cornerback Mike Ford Jr., linebacker Khaleke Hudson, tackle Sam Kamara, and wide receiver David Bell.
Hudson was signed from New Orleans’ practice squad. He played five snaps for the Saints in Week 1 and has 12 starts in 58 games since being drafted by Washington in 2020.
Cleveland is also facing challenges on offense, with Pro Bowl tight end David Njoku expected to be out for several weeks due to an ankle sprain.
The Browns have been working out tight ends over the past two days and signed veteran Geoff Swain. Swain, a 10-year veteran, has 65 starts and 100 games under his belt since being drafted by Dallas in 2015. He has 110 catches for 846 yards and six touchdowns.
