Cleveland Browns set to disrupt Steelers’ AFC North ambitions
The Cleveland Browns are eagerly anticipating their clash with the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 17, a game that could significantly impact the AFC North landscape. With their own season winding down, the Browns are in the unique position of potentially derailing the Steelers’ playoff hopes. A victory would not only bolster Cleveland’s pride but also force Pittsburgh to face the Baltimore Ravens in a high-stakes showdown for the division title in Week 18.
Injury Report for the Browns
As the countdown to kickoff continues, the Browns will have to navigate their matchup against the Steelers without several key players:
Tight End David Njoku
Njoku will miss the game due to personal matters and a knee injury that sidelined him throughout the week. In his absence, rookie tight end Harold Fannin Jr. has been activated, shaking off a groin injury that had put his availability in doubt.
Quarterback Dillon Gabriel
Gabriel’s presence will also be missed, as he is dealing with a shoulder injury that limited his participation in practices leading up to the game. To bolster their quarterback depth, the Browns have elevated Bailey Zappe from the practice squad. Zappe is poised to back up Shedeur Sanders, should the need arise during the game.
Wide Receiver Jamari Thrash
Thrash has been nursing a foot injury, which has kept him off the field since November 9 against the New York Jets. With Thrash unavailable, the Browns will turn to a mix of receivers, including Isaiah Bond, Malachi Corley, Jerry Jeudy, Gage Larvadain, and Cedric Tillman.
Cornerback Myles Harden
Harden has been a consistent contributor this season, but he is questionable for the matchup after being limited in practice due to a shoulder issue. This week marks a notable milestone, as it will be the first game Harden misses after participating in all 15 contests prior.
Offensive Lineman Kendrick Green
Green, signed by the Browns from the Buffalo Bills practice squad, will face his former team in the Steelers. A third-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Green spent his early career in Pittsburgh before a stint with the Houston Texans.
Undrafted Rookie Jeremiah Byers
Byers, who has been with the Browns for nearly three weeks after signing from the Arizona Cardinals practice squad, is yet to make his NFL debut.
Defensive Tackle Sam Kamara
Kamara, who has contributed in four games this season, will also be absent against the Steelers due to an elbow injury that hindered his practice participation all week.
Steelers’ Inactive Players
On the other side of the ball, the Steelers will also be missing several key players, including:
WR Calvin Austin III
RB Caleb Johnson
CB Brandon Echols
CB James Pierre
OL Isaac Sayumalo
OLB T.J. Watt
In light of these absences, Will Howard is set to serve as the team’s emergency quarterback.
As both teams gear up for this pivotal matchup, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Browns have a chance to play the role of spoilers, while the Steelers aim to secure their path toward the playoffs. The outcome will resonate beyond just this game, shaping the narrative of the AFC North as the season comes to a close.
