The Cleveland Browns are facing key injury concerns as they prepare to open the 2025 NFL season against the Cincinnati Bengals. Defensive end Myles Garrett did not practice on Thursday due to a hip issue, casting uncertainty over his availability for Sunday’s matchup.
Garrett, 29, remains the centerpiece of Cleveland’s defense and has a track record of performing at a high level despite injuries.
Last season, Garrett started all 17 games, recording 14 sacks, a league-leading 22 tackles for loss, and 28 quarterback hits. His performance earned him a fourth career first-team AP All-Pro selection. Head coach Kevin Stefanski is expected to provide updates on Garrett’s status during his Friday media session, and Garrett typically addresses reporters on Fridays, offering insight into his readiness.
Linebacker Easton Mascarenas-Arnold was also added to the injury report with an Achilles issue and did not participate in practice. Meanwhile, defensive tackle Mike Hall, who has been recovering from a knee injury, was upgraded from non-participant to limited practice status, suggesting progress in his recovery.
Browns injury report updates
Several additional players were listed as limited during Thursday’s session. Cornerback Denzel Ward is managing a shoulder injury, tight end Blake Whiteheart continues to contend with a knee issue, and linebacker Mohamoud Diabate remained limited.
Center Ethan Pocic was upgraded from limited to full participation, providing stability along the offensive line. Wide receiver Cedric Tillman and offensive tackle Cornelius Lucas also participated fully, maintaining continuity in the offensive unit.
Rookie defensive tackle Mason Graham was added to the injury report but participated fully in practice. The Browns’ medical staff will continue to monitor all injured players throughout the final practices leading up to the season opener. Maintaining health among starters and key contributors will be critical for Cleveland’s performance, particularly against a competitive divisional opponent.
Garrett’s participation is especially significant for the Browns’ pass rush. His ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt opposing offenses is central to Cleveland’s defensive strategy. Stefanski and the coaching staff will need to carefully assess his condition and determine whether he can perform at full capacity without risking further injury.
The coaching staff faces the challenge of balancing preparation with player health, ensuring the roster is ready for the season opener. Decisions on practice participation and in-game workload will be closely managed to minimize risks while optimizing performance. The effectiveness of limited participants and backups could influence game planning and defensive rotations.
As Cleveland prepares for Sunday’s matchup, attention will focus on Garrett’s status, the progress of other limited players, and adjustments in the game plan if key contributors are unavailable. The Browns aim to field a competitive lineup that balances experience and depth, ensuring that injuries do not undermine their opening-week performance.
With key players recovering and the coaching staff actively monitoring health, the Browns hope to enter the 2025 season with a strong defensive presence, particularly along the defensive line, and set the tone for the early portion of the campaign.
