Jared Verse missed Wednesday’s practice with knee swelling but is expected to play in the Browns’ Week 8 clash vs. the Steelers.
Cleveland Browns defensive end Jared Verse is expected to be available for Sunday’s Week 8 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers despite a knee issue that kept him out of Wednesday’s practice.
Head coach Todd Monken said Verse experienced swelling in his knee, leading the Browns to give him a day of rest. The team remains optimistic about his availability for the divisional contest, which will determine who moves into first place in the AFC North.
Verse’s status has drawn attention following his criticism of Pittsburgh after Cleveland’s Week 4 win. The 25-year-old described the Steelers as “dirty” and said he had no respect for the team after their previous meeting.
Pittsburgh defensive lineman Cam Heyward responded to Verse’s remarks on Tuesday, saying the comments would be addressed on the field Sunday.
Cleveland will need Verse to make an impact against veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, as the edge rusher has been unable to consistently affect the pocket this season. Through seven games, he has recorded 17 tackles, including 10 solo stops, but has not registered a sack. He has also produced only four pressures this season.
The Browns also had several other players dealing with injuries during Wednesday’s practice. Right tackle Tytus Howard (concussion) and center Elgton Jenkins (knee) were among those who did not participate. Cornerback Myles Harden (hamstring) and defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. (ankle) were initially listed as absent, although both were subsequently reported to have been on the practice field, with Hall returning for the first time since injuring his ankle versus the Steelers.
Cleveland Browns defensive end Jared Verse is expected to be available for Sunday’s Week 8 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers despite a knee issue that kept him out of Wednesday’s practice. Head coach Todd Monken said Verse experienced swelling in his knee, leading the Browns to give him a day of rest.
