The Cleveland Browns are currently contending with injuries affecting their kicker, Dustin Hopkins, and punter, Corey Bojorquez, as reported by Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team.
Hopkins is sidelined with a hamstring injury and is considered week-to-week. In his absence, Riley Patterson will assume the kicking duties for the Browns in their upcoming game against the New York Jets on Thursday night. On the other hand, Bojorquez’s injury appears to be less severe, involving a quad issue. To prepare for a potential absence, the Browns have signed Matt Haack as a backup punter in case Bojorquez is unable to play against the Jets.
While it’s confirmed that Riley Patterson will fill in for Hopkins on Thursday, the situation regarding Bojorquez or Matt Haack handling punting duties against the Jets remains uncertain. Keeping a close eye on the injury report, which has been a constant concern for the Browns throughout the season, will be crucial.
These injuries add to the growing list of setbacks for Cleveland this season. Despite the challenges, head coach Kevin Stefanski has guided the team to a commendable 10-5 record, placing them in a favorable position for a playoff berth and an outside chance at securing the No. 1 seed in the AFC.
Following the Jets game, the Browns will face the Cincinnati Bengals in a road game to conclude the regular season. The implications of this final matchup against the Bengals remain to be seen. Presently, Stefanski and the Browns are focused on securing a win on Thursday to solidify their playoff spot and alleviate pressure heading into the last game of the regular season.
