Browns cleared to practice for first time ahead of Steelers game

Things are looking up for the Cleveland Browns just two days before they participate in their first playoff game in 18 years, a wild-card showdown at the Pittsburgh Steelers. 

NFL insider Josina Anderson reported that the Browns will return to the practice field Friday afternoon for the first time this week. The club later confirmed to media outlets that practice is scheduled to get underway at 4:30 p.m. ET. 

Cleveland's facility remained closed throughout the midweek into Friday morning due to the COVID-19 issues that began impacting the club before its Week 16 loss to the New York Jets. Since that time, head coach Kevin Stefanski and two of his assistants, as well as six players, in total, have reportedly tested positive for the coronavirus. 

Stefanski, the assistants, starting safety Ronnie Harrison, three-time Pro Bowl left guard Joel Bitonio, and wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge are all out for Sunday's contest after they returned positive coronavirus tests. Linebacker Malcolm Smith, tight end Harrison Bryant, and cornerbacks Denzel Ward and Kevin Johnson were still on the reserve/COVID-19 list ahead of Friday's practice. 

Special teams coordinator Mike Priefer will serve as Cleveland's interim coach at Pittsburgh, and offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt will call plays for quarterback Baker Mayfield. 

With the Browns practicing, there's now little doubt left this game is occurring on Sunday night.