Could Cleveland Browns Be Without Two Starters vs. Los Angeles Rams?
The Los Angeles Rams are now riding a two-game winning streak following their 37-14 win over the Arizona Cardinals and could make it three with a victory on Sunday over a Cleveland Browns team that injuries have recently plagued.
While that is easier said than done, the Browns currently sit at 7-4 despite the injury problems, and the Rams' matchup with them could come at a favorable time.
Cleveland is already without starting quarterback Deshaun Watson and running back Nick Chubb, both due to season-ending injuries. But things could get worse as star edge rusher Myles Garrett and quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson both suffered injuries in their 29-12 loss to the Denver Broncos.
Garrett left the game on Sunday with a shoulder injury, while Thompson-Robinson exited with a potential concussion. This now has their status for Sunday's game versus the Rams in doubt.
"The shoulder is sore," Browns coach Kevin Stefanski said of Garrett. "Feel good about where he’ll be, but day-to-day."
Cleveland Browns quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson (left) and defensive end Myles Garrett (right).
USA Today Network
The loss of Garrett could be good news for a Rams offense that continued to find its stride with a healthy Matthew Stafford versus the Cardinals. Garrett, the four-time All-Pro and former first-round draft pick, leads Cleveland in sacks with 13.5 through 11 games and would be a major loss for a much improved Browns defense.
The Browns' defense currently ranks seventh in points allowed per game, first in total yards allowed per game, and are the NFL's top third-down defense. Much of their success on defense is due to their pass-rush, which ranks ninth in sacks.
As for Thompson-Robinson, Stefanski refused to name a starting quarterback on Monday as he said they'll wait to see how the rookie's health progresses.
However, if Thompson-Robinson cannot go on Sunday, then his replacement on Sunday, P.J. Walker, could get the start, or former Baltimore Ravens quarterback and recently added practice member Joe Flacco could make his first appearance of the season.
Sunday's kickoff inside SoFi Stadium is scheduled for 1:25 p.m. (PT) as the Rams will look to get back to .500 with a win.
