Browns’ final injury report before hosting Chargers shows they could be down a second Pro Bowler

Cleveland Browns are trying to build their first winning streak of the season in Week 9 when they host the Los Angeles Chargers.

It was already known that the Browns would be without linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah after he suffered a neck injury last game out that resulted in an overnight stay at a local hospital. JOK will miss at least this game against the Chargers and is a big loss.

Linebacker Jordan Hicks (elbow, triceps) joined Owusu-Koramoah as the two players ruled out against Los Angeles. The Browns have listed cornerback Denzel Ward (concussion) and linebacker Khaleke Hudson as questionable to suit up.

On Friday, left guard Joel Bitonio (foot), tight end David Njoku (ankle), and Ward all returned to practice on Friday after missing the previous two days. For Ward, this comes as a surprise. The Pro Bowl corner cleared the concussion protocol but after suffering confirmed concussion No. 6 of his NFL career, one would think the Browns would be careful and hold him out at least a game.

Missing both Hicks and Owusu-Koramoah is hard to replace for the Browns but Mohamoud Diabate has stepped up as of late and will have another opportunity here. Cleveland will rely on Winston Reid as well, who played an extended role against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 8.

One more week away from when Nick Chubb originally returned should mean good things for him continuing to ramp up. Chubb had 52 yards rushing against Baltimore. Cleveland found some success through the air with Jameis Winston making his first start last week, they will try to replicate that against a good Los Angeles defense. 

A full injury report for both teams with injury designations will be posted here when available.