On Monday, the Cleveland Browns gave players like Jordan Elliott, Amari Cooper, and Myles Garrett better-than-expected injury news.
Myles Garrett, who was wearing a sling, said he felt a pop in his left shoulder following the game against the Denver Broncos. Garrett’s injury was characterized as a strained shoulder by head coach Kevin Stefanski on Monday, who called him “day to day.” Defensive end Jordan Elliott (ankle) and wide receiver Amari Cooper (rib) were also listed as day-to-day while quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson is undergoing concussion protocol.
Although “day-to-day” is ambiguous and could result in missed games, this is far better news than many had anticipated, especially when Garrett told the media about the injury during the game. The results of Cooper’s x-rays indicated that the rib wasn’t broken. Elliott’s ankle issue has not been described in great depth up to this time. Elliott and Cooper were declared ineligible for the Broncos game on Sunday. DTR was likewise ruled out and had a concussion confirmed.
That begs the question of who will start as quarterback for the Browns against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday. To get ready for the game, the team is spending the week on the campus of UCLA. DTR will have overlooked certain crucial procedures even in the unlikely event that he manages to pass the protocol. Stefanski would only agree to state that DTR’s health and his progress through the concussion protocol would determine how the team would handle the quarterback position.
Joe Flacco, who signed to the Browns practice squad last week, is the subject of current conjecture. He watched in street clothes and was not included to the Sunday game roster. The Browns may turn once more to P.J. Walker, who has made a few appearances this season and even led two drives that resulted in victories. It’s more probable, though, that they will utilize Flacco if he can catch up.
The Browns may have to start rookies Siaki Ika and Isaiah McGuire against the Rams if Elliott and Garrett are unable to play. Ika hasn’t been out and about yet this season. The Baylor player selected in the third round provides physicality and a forceful offensive rush, but it’s unclear if he’ll be ready for action on Sunday. This season, McGuire—a fourth-round selection—has participated and received game reps against the Arizona Cardinals.
Dawand Jones, an offensive tackle rookie, has been used by the Browns for almost the whole season. Cameron Mitchell, a corner, has seen better days and is presently on injured reserve. This week, Ika and McGuire should get a lot of practice reps and could have a chance to play a significant role against the Rams.
After playing the Rams, the 7-4 Browns return home to host the Jacksonville Jaguars.