Team loses LB Phillips to torn biceps

The Browns already have three players facing surgery. The latest addition is linebacker Jacob Phillips.

The prevailing theory on the Browns is only a rash of injuries can derail their route to the playoffs in 2021.

The regular season doesn’t begin until Sept. 12, and already they have three players facing surgery. The latest addition is linebacker Jacob Phillips, who suffered a torn biceps tendon practicing against the Giants on Aug. 19.

Phillips at some point will be added to the injured reserve list. He has not been ruled out from returning late in the season, which means if the Browns believe he can play in 2021 he won’t appear on I.R. until after the roster is set at 53.

The NFL has relaxed its injured reserve rules for 2021. An unlimited number of players can return from injured reserve. He must miss a minimum of three games instead of eight weeks as was the case in the past when only two players could be designated to return.

Also as in the past, a player designated for return must first be a part of the 53-man roster.

The rule prevents teams from “stashing” players on injured reserve in training camp to avoid putting them through waivers. The cutdown to 53 this season is Sept. 1.

Tight end Stephen Carlson suffered a season-ending knee injury on Aug. 14 in the preseason opener in Jacksonville.

Wide receiver Ryan Switzer caught a touchdown pass late against the Jaguars but sustained a foot injury that requires surgery to repair. Carlson and Switzer were placed on injured reserve Aug. 17, which means both are ineligible to play for the Browns this season.

None of the three major injuries is to a starter, but Carlson and Phillips had significant roles in the 11-5 2020 season.

Carlson caught only one pass last year, but his blocking was an important part of success in short-yardage situations.

Phillips played in nine games and started three of them as a rookie playing behind B.J. Goodson. He was in on 25 tackles and broke up one pass.

Phillips was playing behind middle linebacker Anthony Walker in training camp this summer. He also lined up as an outside linebacker on occasion.

Sione Takitaki, the starting strongside linebacker, left practice Aug. 19 with a hamstring injury. How much time he will miss has not been determined.

The Browns made roster moves Aug. 20 to fill the linebacker vacancies. Montrel Meander and Willie Harvey Jr. were signed. Running back Corey Fuller and wide receiver JoJo Ward were waived.