Cleveland Browns Prepare for Rapid Turnaround After Loss to Saints

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the press on Monday following the team’s disappointing loss to the New Orleans Saints. The Browns face a swift return to action with an upcoming Thursday night game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

During the matchup against the Saints, the Browns entered the fourth quarter tied at 14, but ultimately conceded three touchdowns, leading to a 35-14 defeat. This marks the team’s eighth loss of the season. Coach Stefanski acknowledged the challenge, stating, «These Thursday night games don’t allow you really to spend much time thinking about the previous one. You’ve got to get on the next opponent.»

One notable concern for the Browns coming out of Week 11 was kicker Dustin Hopkins’ performance. Hopkins missed all his field goal attempts during the game, including a 51-yard and a 27-yard effort. A 32-yard attempt was obscured by a defensive holding penalty that wiped it out. Despite these issues, Stefanski expressed his confidence in Hopkins, saying he would not bring in another kicker to compete for the position.

Hopkins, who set a Browns single-season record with 33 made field goals in 2023, reflected on his performance. «I expect better for my teammates, I expect better for the city of Cleveland,» he remarked. He has completed 14 of 20 field goal attempts this season, with two of the misses inside 49 yards.

In other developments, Browns left tackle Dawand Jones suffered a fractured fibula during the game, requiring surgery as per Stefanski. Jones has made seven starts this season, providing valuable game and practice experience. Stefanski discussed evaluating Jones’ role on both sides of the offensive line based on this season’s performance.

The Browns are also evaluating the status of tackle Jedrick Wills, who might start against the Steelers. Wills, sidelined previously with a knee injury, has seen limited action this season.

Furthermore, tight end David Njoku is out for the next game after sustaining a concussion. Cornerback Greg Newsome II, noted for his interception and forced fumble in Week 11, is day-to-day with rib and ankle injuries.

The team will resume practice on Tuesday, and Stefanski is expected to provide further updates on player injuries as they prepare for the Steelers matchup.