The defense of the Cleveland Browns continues to take hits. Defensive tackle Maurice Hurst has been declared out for the season after suffering a torn pectoral muscle in this past Sunday’s win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. The team has subsequently placed Hurst on injured reserve.
Hurst has been experiencing a comeback of sorts with the Browns after appearing in just two games since the end of the 2020 season. The former Michigan Wolverine has been able to produce much more than anyone could have reasonably expected given his past injury and health issues, combined with his overall lack of production in his career.
Appearing in 39% of defensive snaps for Cleveland this season, Hurst was able to carve out a meaningful role. Hurst was able to total 22 tackles and 1.5 sacks while deflecting three passes. This proved useful as part of a defensive line rotation under new defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz.
Cleveland will now have to move forward without Hurst and find a way to insert some meaningful production alongside Dalvin Tomlinson. The Browns still have the presence of Jordan Elliott to rely upon but there was a reason why Cleveland was so proactive in adding defensive tackle depth this past offseason. Perhaps the team could turn to rookie Siaki Ika to contribute on a part-time basis, with Hurst sidelined for the rest of the season.
Whichever direction the Browns decide to go in, there is one thing that is for certain, they are going to miss the contributions from Hurst as they continue their quest for the playoffs.
More must-reads: