Browns face uphill battle with injuries ahead of Dolphins clash
The Cleveland Browns are bracing for a tough challenge as they prepare for their crucial matchup against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. With both teams sporting a dismal 1-5 record, the urgency for a win has reached critical levels. However, the Browns will have to navigate this pivotal game without several key contributors.
Conklin’s absence looms large
The absence of starting right tackle Jack Conklin is particularly concerning for the Browns. Conklin, who has struggled with injuries throughout the season, is sidelined with a concussion suffered in last week’s defeat to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Although he returned to practice in a limited capacity later in the week, he has not been cleared to face the Dolphins. This injury marks yet another blow to an offensive line that will be fielding its seventh different starting unit this season, a worrying trend as they seek to protect rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel.
Defensive challenges
Adding to the Browns’ woes, second-year defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. will also miss the game. Hall is still recovering from offseason knee surgery and has yet to make his season debut. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has indicated that Hall is “day-to-day,” but despite returning to practice, the defensive lineman is not ready to contribute just yet.
Injuries to key offensive players
The injury list does not stop there. Starting tight end David Njoku has also been ruled out after leaving the game against the Steelers multiple times, ultimately sidelined by a knee injury. Njoku had been a crucial target for Gabriel, showcasing his ability to make tough catches even while battling through injuries.
On a brighter note, the Browns will feature rookie defensive tackle Mason Graham, who has made an impact since being selected with the fifth overall pick. Additionally, wide receiver Gage Larvadain, who was listed as questionable, will also be available. His inclusion is timely, as both Cedric Tillman and DeAndre Carter are currently on injured reserve, leaving the Browns thin at the wide receiver position. Larvadain will join Jerry Jeudy, Jamari Thrash, and Isaiah Bond as the healthy options for Gabriel.
Run game in focus
With inclement weather expected in the form of rain and wind, the Browns will likely need to lean heavily on their run game. This strategy becomes even more critical in light of Conklin’s absence and the offensive line’s ongoing struggles. Stefanski faced criticism for not utilizing rookie running back Quinshon Judkins more effectively in the previous week’s loss. If the offensive line continues to falter in blocking for Judkins, the Browns may find it challenging to carve out a path to victory.
Looking ahead
Other inactive players for the Browns include running back Raheim Sanders and cornerback Jarrick Bernard-Converse. As Sunday’s game approaches, the stakes feel particularly high for Stefanski’s future as head coach. The Browns will need their remaining healthy players to step up in a significant way if they hope to secure a much-needed win.
