Browns Suffer Major Setback with Maliek Collins’ Season-Ending Injury
The Cleveland Browns faced a devastating loss on Sunday, not only succumbing to the San Francisco 49ers with a score of 26-8 but also enduring significant roster blows. As their record dipped to 3-9, the team’s defensive line took a heavy hit with the announcement that defensive tackle Maliek Collins will miss the remainder of the season due to a quad injury.
Collins’ Injury Details
Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed on Monday that Collins, who sustained the injury during the third quarter, will require surgery. The injury occurred without contact, leading to Collins being carted off the field—a sobering sight for the Browns and their fans. Collins had been a stalwart presence on the defensive front, having started all 12 games this season and ranking second on the team with 6.5 sacks, along with 25 combined tackles and seven tackles for loss.
Tension on the Field
In the aftermath of Collins’ injury, tensions escalated between Browns players and 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings. As Collins was being taken off the field, several Browns confronted Jennings, an incident that highlighted the emotions running high in a game that had already seen its fair share of physicality. Defensive lineman Shelby Harris didn’t hold back, commenting on Jennings’ reputation by referencing a prior incident involving Panthers safety Tre’von Moehrig, who received a one-game suspension after a confrontation with Jennings. “I see exactly why they punched your (groin). I’m surprised nobody punched him in the jaw yet,” Harris remarked, capturing the frustration that had boiled over.
Myles Garrett Weighs In
Star defensive end Myles Garrett also spoke on the matter, though his words were more measured. “I can’t speak for how he was raised, but if you’ve got nothing good to say, don’t say something to somebody,” Garrett stated, hinting at the underlying issues that may have contributed to the on-field altercations.
Additional Injury Concerns
As if Collins’ absence wasn’t enough of a concern, the Browns are now navigating a series of injuries impacting their roster. Guard Wyatt Teller is expected to be “week-to-week” with a calf injury sustained during the game. Rookie running back Dylan Sampson is considered “day-to-day” with a similar injury that forced him to exit in the fourth quarter. Right tackle Jack Conklin, for the second time this season, has entered the concussion protocol after being treated on the sidelines shortly before halftime.
Next Steps for the Browns
The losses are particularly poignant for a team already struggling to find its footing. Collins, who joined the Browns in March on a two-year, $20 million deal after his release from San Francisco, was enjoying one of his best seasons before the injury. In his absence, Shelby Harris is poised to step up, while Jerome Ford might take over for Sampson if he is unable to play. Should Teller remain sidelined, Teven Jenkins is likely to fill his spot, and KT Leveston could take on Conklin’s role if needed.
As the Browns grapple with these challenges, the path forward looks increasingly rocky, with their playoff hopes hanging by a thread. The team will need to rally quickly, both emotionally and physically, to navigate the remainder of the season.
