CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Browns will face off against the Kansas City Chiefs today without their star tight end, David Njoku, who has been ruled inactive due to a hamstring injury. The injury, which kept Njoku from practicing throughout the week, was sustained during the second quarter of last week's loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Njoku, who is recognized as one of the top targets for the Browns this season, had been listed as questionable as the game approached. Despite his best efforts to test his readiness before kickoff, he was unable to finalize his participation. According to reports, "Njoku’s tight hamstring didn’t loosen up enough for him to play today against the Chiefs." This absence marks another setback for the Browns as they prepare to face the two-time Super Bowl champions.
After suffering the injury last week, Njoku continued to play, catching seven passes for 42 yards and even scoring a touchdown. This season, he has already made 56 receptions for 439 yards, leading the team with five touchdown catches. With Njoku sidelined, Jordan Akins is expected to step up and fill the void left by the Pro Bowler. Akins has tallied 24 receptions for 243 yards and one touchdown this season, providing the Browns with some experience at the tight end position.
The Browns have also decided to make changes at kicker. Dustin Hopkins has been struggling with his performance, missing six of his last nine field goals. With his form declining, he has been declared inactive for today's game, replaced by Riley Patterson, who had been elevated from the practice squad earlier this week. Patterson's performance will be closely watched since Hopkins' recent inconsistency has been concerning for the Browns. Scrutinizing the decision, one source noted, "Hopkins has missed six of his last nine field goals over the last five games."
To add to the injury woes, wide receiver Cedric Tillman is also out as he continues to navigate concussion protocol. This marks the third consecutive game he will miss, indicating the growing list of key players unavailable for the Browns. The team's ability to compete against the formidable Chiefs will undoubtedly be impacted by these losses.
On the bright side for Cleveland, Pro Bowl left guard Joel Bitonio is active and expected to start today. Bitonio's return is significant since he has missed only one game since the beginning of the 2017 season due to injury. Before the game, he had been listed as questionable and limited during practice, making his involvement even more reassuring for the Browns’ offensive line.
The inactive players for today’s matchup against the Chiefs include Bailey Zappe (the No. 3 quarterback), running back D’Onta Foreman, cornerback Chigozie Anusiem, and defensive end James Houston, alongside Njoku and Tillman. With kickoff set for 1 p.m. at Huntington Bank Field, the Browns will have to muster all their strength and strategize effectively if they hope to emerge victoriously without these key contributions.
Njoku's absence highlights the depth of the team's roster and the way they must respond to adversity. The impact of injuries on both sides has changed the dynamics of the game, making the outcome even more unpredictable. Fans will eagerly watch how head coach Kevin Stefanski and his team navigate this challenging situation against the reigning champions.
With both the kicking game and receiving corps reshuffled, it's clear the Browns are pushing through considerable turmoil as they continue their season. The hope remains high for Njoku's recovery, with targets set for his return. Speculation suggests he could potentially be back next week, offering hopeful news for the Browns as they assess their progress throughout the rest of the season.
