The Cleveland Browns have had to overcome so many injuries to key players throughout the 2023 season. They have done a great job of navigating things, as they are 8-5 heading into a Week 15 matchup with the Chicago Bears.
A big reason for their success this season has been the performance of their defense, which is one of the best in the NFL. The Browns currently rank 14th in points allowed but are first in points surrendered, as they are making things very difficult on their opponents every week.
However, things are going to get a little tougher on that side of the ball as an important piece will be lost for the remainder of the season. Defensive tackle Maurice Hurst Jr. suffered a season-ending pectoral injury.
NFL News & Rumors: Ndamukong Suh, Maurice Hurst Jr., Cleveland Browns Updates
“My 2023 season is over, and the frustration is unbearable. However I am grateful to my teammates, coaches, staff, and the city of Cleveland for welcoming me and making me a part of this family. I’ll be back better than before,” Hurst posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
It is a huge loss for the Browns, as Hurts has been a key contributor in their defensive line rotation. He has played 39 percent of the snaps, providing 22 tackles, 1.5 sacks, four tackles for loss, one interception and three passes defended.
Replacing that kind of production will not be easy. Despite his somewhat limited playing time, Hurst was one of the highest-graded interior defensive linemen in the NFL, earning an 81.0 overall grade, which was 11th among qualified players at the position, per PFF.
Cleveland still has Shelby Harris, Dalvin Tomlinson and Jordan Elliott to rely on in Hurst’s absence. But, if the team looks outside of the organization for some help, former All-Pro Ndamukong Suh could be a target.
NFL News & Rumors: Ndamukong Suh, Maurice Hurst Jr., Cleveland Browns Updates
The Browns have been linked to Suh previously and he is looking to make a comeback this season, reaching out to several teams. Suh showcased last season during his stint with the Philadelphia Eagles that he can still be productive when called upon.
Signing him would fill a massive void in the Cleveland lineup, as they wouldn’t need him to play major snaps. He could slide into the rotational role that Hurst was playing and potentially provide a similar impact based on his track record.
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