In Week 14, Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, the defensive end, hurt his pectoral during the Browns’ game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. At first, the squad thought Okoronkwo was out for the season.
The 28-year-old pass rusher did, however, recuperate quickly enough to make a limited comeback to practice this week. With Okoronkwo in the lineup, the team has a real chance to make a difference in its playoff run, which is expected to start in 8–10 days, depending on scheduling.
In an interview with Camryn Justice of News 5 Cleveland, Okoronkwo discussed his injuries and what it means to get back in time to potentially play again for the Browns in their wildcard playoff game.
It was similar to mountains and valleys, in my opinion, since I was depressed and getting ready for the following few months. And then, on Thursday, January 4, there appeared to be a glimmer of optimism, Okoronkwo told Justice. It was a bit of a roller coaster, but I’m content with where I am at the moment. My mood was lifted by being with my boys, and it felt terrific.
In his reply, Okoronkwo expressed his desire to play a part in the playoffs. Okoronkwo is probably going to be out of the Browns’ last regular season game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. The Browns, who are guaranteed the No. 5 seed, will be without several of their best and/or injured players.
“My intention is to return at some point during our Super Bowl run,” he informed Justice. “I’m just going to keep contributing, keep working hard, and make sure I can support the team as much as I can.”
Justice received confirmation from head coach Kevin Stefanski that Okoronkwo’s health is “trending” upward.
Stefanski remarked, “He’s clearly headed in the right direction.” “Having him back out there is exciting because he’s put in a ton of work.”
The Browns signed Okoronkwo to a three-year, $19 million contract during the offseason, and he has been a good addition.
In 17 games with the Houston Texans in 2022, the former linebacker turned defensive end recorded career-highs with 17 pressures, 11 quarterback hits, 9 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks. According to Pro Football Reference, Okoronkwo has had 12 pressures, 8 QB hits, 12 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks in 13 games with the Browns this season.
In his first season with Cleveland, Okoronkwo has yet to start a game; he is the backup to All-Pro Myles Garrett and another offseason signing, Za’Darius Smith. Nonetheless, Okoronkwo was a member of Cleveland’s defense for 434 snaps in 2023, as well as 24 special teams snaps.
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