On the field, a Cleveland Browns defender nearly passed away….
The Browns are reportedly in danger of losing another important component of their formidable defensive line for the duration of the season, adding to their recent string of unfortunate injury news.
After a week full of tragic injury reports, there might be more to come.
In Cleveland’s 31-27 victory over the Jaguars, pass rusher Ogbo Okoronkwo sustained a pectoral injury that might put him on the injured reserve list, joining a long line of teammates. The team placed safety Grant Delpit, another important defender, on injured reserve the same day the news was announced. Delpit might be able to make a comeback in time for the postseason after overcoming his groin ailment, but Okoronkwo is probably not one of those players.
“I don’t have final confirmation on Okoronkwo,” head coach Kevin Stefanski said before practice on Wednesday. “I’ll hold out hope, but it’s certainly looking [like it would be season-ending].” Okoronkwo actually exited Sunday’s game multiple times. At first the former Texan was dealing with a groin injury but wound up returning to the game. Later he exited with what is now known to be a season-threatening pectoral injury.
This is the most recent setback in a Browns season marred by illnesses; three other players had their seasons ended this week due to various ailments. Maurice Hurst, a fellow defensive lineman, and starting tackles Dawand Jones and Jedrick Wills are on that list. This season, the Browns have already lost 13 players to injuries that will terminate their careers. Delpit finishes with a 14 who, at the absolute least, is finished with the regular season.
Against players like Myles Garrett and Za’Darius Smith this season, Okoronkwo has been a reliable addition to the Browns defensive line. 31 total tackles, 12 for a loss, 4.5 sacks, and eight quarterback hits have been recorded by the former Texan. On his resume, he also has a fumble recovery.
The 28-year-old signed a three-year, $19 million contract during the first few days of free agency in March to join the Browns this offseason as a free agent.
