Cleveland just got some serious good news for their Sunday divisional showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Starting right tackle Tytus Howard, who was on the questionable list with a concussion, officially cleared the league’s protocol Saturday. That means he’s a go for the game.
Howard’s Return and the Ghost of 23 Years
This isn’t just a regular roster update, folks. Howard being back means the Browns’ offensive line is at full strength. Full strength! And why does that matter so much? Because Cleveland is staring down a 23-year, regular-season losing streak to the Steelers in Pittsburgh. That’s a quarter-century of frustration. Having their O-line locked in is absolutely critical if they want to finally bury that monkey. It gives them a fighting chance against a rival that has had their number for way too long.
Secondary Concerns and a Practice Squad Surprise
Now, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Starting cornerback Myles Harden is still questionable with a hamstring injury. If he can’t go, that’s a real test for Cleveland’s secondary depth. But here’s where it gets interesting: the Browns only made one practice squad elevation for the game, and it was rookie tight end Carsen Ryan. This seventh-round pick from BYU has played in six games, but we’re talking just two offensive snaps with no stats, and 73 special teams snaps with one tackle. He was actually released before the Titans game to bring back running back Dylan Sampson from injured reserve, then signed back to the practice squad. So, they’re confident in their existing secondary, or they’re betting big on their current crew holding up. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh made their own moves, signing wide receiver Brandon Smith to the 53-man roster and elevating wide receiver Brandon Johnson from their practice squad.
Sunday isn’t just another game for Cleveland; it’s a chance to rewrite history and put 23 years of pain behind them. Will they finally break the streak? All eyes are on Pittsburgh.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply