Jared Verse hit the practice field for the Browns on Thursday, a huge lift as they gear up for Sunday’s clash with the Steelers. But before anyone could really celebrate that return, the news dropped: right tackle Tytus Howard was a no-go for the second straight day, sidelined with a concussion. It’s a classic NFL rollercoaster, giving and taking, just days before a massive showdown.
Verse’s Return Brings a Spark
After being sidelined on Wednesday, getting Verse back on the field, even in a limited capacity due to his knee, is exactly what the defense needs. The guy is a force, and his numbers so far in 2026 prove it: 17 total tackles, four tackles for loss, and five QB hits. That kind of pressure is crucial, especially when facing a rival like the Steelers. And hey, it wasn’t all bad news on the injury front. Center Elgton Jenkins also made a limited return to practice, battling his own knee issues, which is a bit of good news tucked in there.
Howard’s Absence and the Growing Injury List
But man, Tytus Howard’s continued absence with that concussion is a gut punch for the offensive line. Going into a physical game like this, you need all your blockers healthy. Not all bad news, though: running back Dylan Sampson got an upgrade, moving from limited to full participation, which is solid for the backfield rotation. But the injury report is still pretty stacked beyond Howard. Safety Grant Delpit (neck), defensive tackle Mason Graham (ankle), defensive tackle Mike Hall (ankle), cornerback Myles Harden (hamstring), safety Daniel Thomas (ankle), and linebacker Carson Schwesinger (ankle) were all still limited.
So, heading into Sunday’s huge matchup against the Steelers, the Browns get a key pass rusher back, but the offensive line worries are real with Howard out. Let’s hope the defense can step up and the offense can find a way to protect the QB. This is going to be a grinder.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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