The Cleveland Browns have been dealing with some key injuries to their roster, but fans are wondering about one that could affect the pass rush moving forward.
Browns defensive end Alex Wright is dealing with a quad injury that’s expected to keep him out of at least their first practice of Week 11, but might be longer. There are talks of Wright potentially joining the IR. The media asked Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski about whether Wright will be on IR, and didn’t exactly give a straight answer.
“We’ll see.”
Wright has started in four of the nine games he has appeared in this season, and has shown himself to be one of the team’s best pass rushers. He has racked up 24 tackles, a career-high nine tackles for loss, three quarterback hits, three sacks, and one forced fumble.
Not having Wright available to play would be a blow to a defense that has actually performed well this season, but has gotten zero support from the offense or special teams. Despite holding the New York Jets to 169 yards, sacking Justin Fields three times, and nabbing an interception, the Browns still managed to lose 27-20.
In terms of who would be the next man to step up in Wright’s place at defensive end, Isaiah McGuire has gotten the five other starts at defensive end over Wright.
McGuire has not been as effective at getting to the quarterback, with only two quarterback hits and one sack in nine games. Cameron Thomas could see more playing time as he’s gotten three quarterback hits and 1.5 sacks on the season.
Cleveland is going to need somebody to step up, as there is not as much optimism that Wright will play soon. While there is no word on when he will return, Stefanski is certainly giving the impression that Wright might miss at least one game due to the quad injury.
The good news is the Browns are relatively deep on defense and should be able to manage through these situations. It also helps that they have 16 quarterback hits and an NFL-leading 11 sacks from Myles Garrett.
As the team sits at 2-8, the Browns need somebody to step up and help them somehow pull off the miracle of winning seven games in a row to close the season and sneak into the postseason. If they want to make that run, it certainly looks like they might have to get it done without Wright playing in the rotation.
As the NFL trade deadline approaches, rumors surrounding Aaron Jones’ future continue to swirl. However, the Minnesota Vikings’ star running back is making it clear that the speculation won’t distract him from his focus on the field. “Rumors are part of this league, but ask me where I’m rushing next and you’ll get the same answer: into the opposing backfield. Whether it’s Vikings blue or something else, I’ll still hit that hole fast,” Jones said in a recent interview, firing back at trade talk that has surrounded him in recent weeks.
Jones, who has been one of the most dynamic and versatile backs in the NFL, has consistently been a key player for the Vikings’ offense. Known for his ability to break tackles, accelerate through holes, and make big plays in the open field, Jones is a critical part of the Vikings’ plans moving forward. However, with the team’s record sitting below expectations and the trade rumors heating up, some have speculated whether Jones could be moved to a contender before the deadline.
Despite the outside noise, Jones is staying focused on his game. “I don’t let the rumors affect me. I’m here to do my job — rush the ball, pick up blitzes, and make plays whenever I can,” Jones said. “I know what I bring to the table. My job is to make sure that, when I’m out there, I’m helping my team win. Where I play? That’s a decision for the front office, but I’m committed to doing my part wherever I go.”
Jones’ resilience and dedication to his craft have made him one of the most respected backs in the league. With more than 1,000 rushing yards in multiple seasons and a reputation for performing in clutch moments, Jones’ talent has never been in question. What has become clear is that his leadership and consistency are more valuable than ever, especially as the Vikings look to finish the season strong.
“I’ve played in this league long enough to know that this business can change in a minute. But my mentality will never change. I’m always going to rush hard, and I’m always going to fight for my teammates,” Jones explained.
As the trade deadline looms, the Vikings will have some tough decisions to make. While Jones’ future in Minnesota remains uncertain, his response to the speculation has only further demonstrated his commitment to the team and the game. Whether Jones stays in Minnesota or moves on to another team, one thing is for sure: he’s ready to contribute at the highest level.
With Jones leading the charge in the backfield, the Vikings’ offense remains dangerous, and no matter what jersey he wears, fans can expect him to keep hitting the hole with the same speed and tenacity that has made him one of the NFL’s top running backs.