The Cleveland Browns will be missing multiple starters this weekend when they take on the Las Vegas Raiders on the road. Cleveland is looking to even their record at 2-2 after dropping a tough game against the New York Giants last week.
Tight end David Njoku, left tackle Jedrick Willis, right tackle Jack Conklin, and running back Pierre Strong have all been ruled out for this contest. The Browns also placed All-Pro guard Wyatt Teller on the injured reserve earlier this week so these injuries leave them with little depth along the offensive line.
NFL insider Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team reported the news of the injuries on social media.
The #Browns have ruled out TE David Njoku, LT Jedrick Wills, RT Jack Conklin, and RB Pierre Strong for Sunday’s game vs. the Raiders, in addition to placing All-Pro G Wyatt Teller on IR earlier this week.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) September 27, 2024
The Browns entered the season hopeful for a strong year but injuries and poor play have ravished them. The offense for Cleveland hasn’t been very consistent and it has caused issues so far.
Quarterback Deshaun Watson has struggled this season which is something that the organization had hoped was behind him. Since being acquired in a trade, Watson hasn’t been able to put together his Pro Bowl-caliber seasons with Cleveland.
Through three games this year, he has thrown for 551 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions. For the Browns to do anything of significance this season, Watson is going to need to play much better down the stretch.
CLEVELAND, OHIO – OCTOBER 21: Jedrick Wills #71 of the Cleveland Browns gets set with tight end David Njoku #85 during to an NFL game against the Denver Broncos at FirstEnergy Stadium on October 21, 2021 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Browns will be missing multiple pieces this weekend.
Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images
Even with all the injuries up front, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski is optimistic about their chances. Cleveland relies on a strong running game to open up the offensive attack so losing starting linemen is a crucial blow to their chances.
“There’s things that we can do based on who is available,” Stefanski said.
Taking on the Raiders, Cleveland will need to be aware of star defensive end Maxx Crosby at all times. He has the ability to wreak havoc on a game singlehandedly and Las Vegas has paired him alongside star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins.
The Raiders have played well on the defensive side of the ball so far this season but their offense has struggled. Cleveland will look to take advantage of that fact in this game to earn a much-needed victory.
Both sides come in with a 1-2 record but the Browns had potential Super Bowl aspirations entering the year. If they can’t find a way to grab the win on the road this weekend, it could spell even larger issues for this Cleveland team moving forward.
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