Cleveland Browns’ Return Specialist Jakeem Grant Suffers Knee Injury, Ruled Out for Second Consecutive Season
Cleveland Browns’ return specialist Jakeem Grant Sr. has been sidelined once again due to a knee injury, and unfortunately, he will miss his second straight season. Grant injured his right knee during the opening kickoff in the Browns’ exhibition game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Saturday.
Grant, who had already overcome an Achilles tendon tear, suffered this major setback on his very first touch of the ball for Cleveland in a game. The 31-year-old had signed a three-year, $10 million contract as a free agent in 2022 with the aim of improving the team’s return game.
This injury comes as a major blow to Grant and the Browns, as he had been working hard to make a successful comeback to the field after missing last season due to another injury suffered in training camp. Coach Kevin Stefanski expressed his disappointment for Grant, acknowledging the immense effort and strength he displayed throughout his recovery.
While Stefanski did not provide specific details about Grant’s injury, it is clear that the team had high hopes for him, and his absence will be deeply felt.
In addition to Grant, several other notable players on the Browns’ roster suffered injuries in the 33-32 loss against the Chiefs. Pro Bowl cornerback Denzel Ward sustained a concussion, marking at least his fourth head injury in the past six years. Ward had already missed three games last season due to a similar issue.
Linebacker Jordan Kunaszyk also suffered a knee injury during the game and is expected to be out for multiple weeks, according to Stefanski.
Despite these setbacks, there is some positive news for the Browns. Wide receiver Marquise Goodwin has been cleared to practice after dealing with blood clots in his legs and lungs. The 32-year-old signed with the Browns as a free agent in April, bringing much-needed speed to their wide receiving corps.
As the Browns prepare for the upcoming season, the absence of Grant and the injuries to Ward and Kunaszyk will undoubtedly pose challenges. However, the return of Goodwin provides a glimmer of hope for the team’s receiving unit.
The Browns will need to regroup and rely on their depth as they navigate these setbacks. The coaching staff, players, and fans will be anxiously awaiting updates on the injured players’ recoveries and hoping for their swift return to the field.
