Garrett expects ‘clean’ game with Steelers
Myles Garrett has moved on from the ugly, regrettable moment that chases him still.
He hopes the Pittsburgh Steelers have put his helmet-swinging attack on quarterback Mason Rudolph behind them as well.
“Their head coach said they are past it,” Garrett said Friday. “We’re past that as a team. We are just ready to go out there and play ball.”
On Sunday, Garrett comes face to face with a professional low point and the Steelers for the first time since last Nov. 14, when the Browns’ star defensive end let his emotions overpower him.
In the frantic closing seconds of Cleveland’s 21-7 win at home over the Steelers, Garrett ripped off Rudolph’s helmet and bashed the quarterback over the head with it, triggering a melee between the teams that led to suspensions, fines and accusations of racism.
Garrett was suspended six games by the NFL and had his reputation permanently stained.
But as he readies to play in one of the bigger games since the Browns drafted him No. 1 overall in 2017, Garrett has a plan if the Steelers retaliate.
“Just play within the whistle,” he said. “Do not be worried about what they are doing to frustrate or knock us off our game. I think they are going to play a clean, fair game and we are going to do the same.”
Garrett’s trip to Heinz Field has been a subplot this week, even though the Browns will be facing veteran Ben Roethlisberger instead of Rudolph, his backup. Both teams tried to downplay the significance of the visit, but it’s been impossible to ignore and will likely be brought up every time Garrett plays the Steelers.
Garrett feels if the Browns, who are off to their best start in nearly three decades, can find a way to get to Roethlisberger, they can end their 16-game losing streak in Pittsburgh.
Browns: Wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. missed another practice due to COVID-19 protocols and his status for Sunday’s game against the Steelers is uncertain.
Falcons: Seven-time Pro Bowl receiver Julio Jones returned to practice as a limited participant and hopes to play Sunday against Minnesota.
Jaguars: Pro Bowl receiver DJ Chark is listed as questionable against Detroit on Sunday.
Lions: Detroit ruled out cornerback Desmond Trufant for Sunday’s game at Jacksonville and have put tight end Hunter Bryant on injured reserve.
Packers: Wide receiver Davante Adams and defensive tackle Kenny Clark will be “ready to go” Sunday at Tampa Bay after both players missed multiple games with injuries.
Vikings: NFL leading rusher Dalvin Cook will sit out Sunday’s game against Atlanta because of a groin injury.