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The Browns’ defensive line will lose a significant piece when it goes to Pittsburgh for the playoff game next Sunday night.
Browns coach Kevin Stefanski announced on Monday that defensive side Olivier Vernon broke the Achilles tendon during Sunday’s 24-22 victory over the Steelers. Vernon was taken to the locker room at the beginning of the fourth quarter.
Vernon had two tackles for the loss and a sack in Sunday’s victory. He had 36 tackles, nine sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery in all 14 games he played this season.
The injury will prevent Vernon from playing and will also affect his off season. Vernon is determined to act freely and the moment of Achilles’ rupture will create some doubts about when he will be able to return to the field.