“Walking Through Wild Card Preparations: Browns and Texans Address Injuries and Potential Returns Ahead of Saturday’s Showdown”
The Cleveland Browns and Houston Texans rested several players during their respective walkthroughs on Tuesday. Nonetheless, both teams face notable concerns to monitor leading up to Saturday's wildcard matchup.
On Tuesday, both the Cleveland Browns and Houston Texans conducted walkthroughs as part of their preparations for the upcoming wildcard matchup on Saturday. While the Browns opted to rest several players, those who did play on Sunday were not pushed beyond their limits. Despite both teams sitting out a number of players, there are still noteworthy points that deserve attention.
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski expressed skepticism about kicker Dustin Hopkins being available this week, deeming it “unlikely.” Riley Patterson is expected to handle the kicking duties once again, and Stefanski noted Patterson’s proficiency in dome settings. The potential return of safety Grant Delpit from a groin injury is under consideration, offering the Browns more options, especially in utilizing three safeties in their defensive scheme.
In the unfortunate event that Delpit is unable to play, it would mark his absence from all three of the Browns’ playoff games, having suffered a torn Achilles’ before the 2020 postseason. Wide receiver Cedric Tillman, remaining in the concussion protocol, faces increased uncertainty about his availability for the Saturday game. This situation may necessitate additional contributions from David Bell and Marquise Goodwin in Tillman’s absence.
Running back Pierre Strong Jr., dealing with a back injury sustained on Sunday, hasn’t seen another running back brought in, possibly indicating the team’s optimism about his recovery. John Kelly Jr. could be activated if needed, but Strong’s value on special teams is a factor. A Tuesday tryout for Herb Miller, a cornerback with prior contributions on special teams for the Browns, adds a layer of uncertainty regarding its connection to Strong’s injury.
The Texans, with more reasons to rest their players, have most of their roster on track to play. However, Jonathan Greenard, their sack leader, has been sidelined since his injury against the Browns in their first matchup. While his absence from Tuesday’s practice was expected, if he remains out on Wednesday, doubts may arise about his availability for the upcoming game.
Wide receiver Noah Brown, dealing with a back injury, missed the game against the Indianapolis Colts. His potential return, along with rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, could provide a boost to the Texans against the Browns’ offense.
