Browns hoping to get three key contributors back for the playoffs

Cleveland Browns have faced a ton of adversity this season with injuries but the tide could be turning at the most ideal time. Currently, DE Ogbo Okoronkwo, Anthony Walker Jr., and K Dustin Hopkins all have injuries that have called for multiple weeks missed. Cleveland could get multiple players back for a playoff run. “Obviously, […]

Brandon Little — Ohio State Buckeyes & Cleveland Browns News Writer

Jan 2, 2024 9:41 AM EST

Cleveland Browns have faced a ton of adversity this season with injuries but the tide could be turning at the most ideal time.

Currently, DE Ogbo Okoronkwo, Anthony Walker Jr., and K Dustin Hopkins all have injuries that have called for multiple weeks missed. Cleveland could get multiple players back for a playoff run.

“Obviously, we’ll see how all those guys progress over the course of the next couple of weeks,” Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said. “You want to get all those guys back, obviously, but we’ll just have to see how they do over the next seven to 14 days.”

Okoronkwo's injury was originally thought to be a season-ending pectoral injury. Cleveland is hopeful that he will either be able to return in Week 18, or the Wild Card game. The Browns getting back their No. 3 pass rusher would be a big plus for the playoffs.

Cleveland’s top defense has spent the last couple of weeks without starting MIKE Anthony Walker Jr. Sione Takitaki has been playing in his place and he’s held it down with no issue. Still, Walker is a leader on the defense and his experience is valuable.

One of the best stories of 2023 for Cleveland is Hopkins becoming a Pro Bowler with the Browns. He’s dealing with a hamstring injury and those are always tricky with kickers and easily re-aggravated. He is a weapon for the Browns and at some point in the playoffs, the Browns will rely on him.

If the Browns can get one or more of these players healthy, they’ll be ecstatic. There is a possibility that S Grant Delpit is back in the postseason too.