Last season was a frustrating one for the Cleveland Browns, who had to deal with key injuries to multiple players, including quarterback Deshaun Watson and running back Nick Chubb.
Heading into the 2024 campaign, health continues to be an issue in Cleveland.
Watson is dealing with soreness in his throwing shoulder, and although Chubb is progressing in his rehab from a serious knee injury, he still doesn’t have a timeline for a return.
In addition, Browns beat writer Mary Kay Cabot is reporting that cornerback Denzel Ward has suffered a concussion.
Ward is one of the most important players on the Browns defense, and last season was named to the Pro Bowl for the third time with 11 passes defended and two interceptions.
According to Cabot, this is his fifth known concussion since 2018, which is concerning.
Last year, despite the injuries it had to deal with, Cleveland managed to keep putting wins on the board thanks to its defense, which ranked first in the league in fewest total yards allowed and tied for first in first downs given up.
Up front, defensive end Myles Garrett had an outstanding year with 14.0 sacks, 30 quarterback hits, 17 tackles for loss and four forced fumbles, leading to him winning Defensive Player of the Year.
Cleveland plays in arguably the NFL’s toughest division, the AFC North, competing with the Baltimore Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals.
Because of that, good health and good fortune will be needed if the Browns are to make the playoffs for the second year in a row.
