PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Browns lose their best offensive lineman and their second best pass rusher in the playoff match-up against the Steelers on Sunday.
Guard Joel Bitonio goes on the COVID-19 list along with wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge. Cleveland also placing defensive end Olivier Vernon (Achilles) and center Nick Harris (knee) on injured reserve.
Vernon was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his three sacks, four quarterback hits and safety against the Eagles. The 30-year old signed to an 11 million dollar free agent contract and started 12 of his 13 games with nine sacks, a safety, a forced fumble and fumble recovery.
Harris has started a game at guard this year and has appeared in 12 games overall.
Hodge made a spectacular catch against the Steelers Sunday as one of 11 all year for 180 yards, a 16.4 average.
Bitonio is the big loss, playing 100% of the snaps this year and named a starter for the Pro Bowl this season. It’s the third straight year the second round pick in 2014 was named to the post-season all-star game. The 29-year-old has given up just one sack this year and ranked as the fourth best guard in the NFL by Pro Football Focus.
The Browns found out earlier in the day that head coach Kevin Stefanski tested positive for COVID-19 and will be replaced by Special Teams Coordinator Mike Priefer taking over as temporary head coach against the Steelers.