The Cleveland Browns were hoping for smooth sailing this year related to COVID-19 after problem after problem last year. Unfortunately, today the team announced that they have placed rookie linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah on the Reserve/COVID-19 list.
Owusu-Koramoah reported to Berea with the rest of the rookies on Saturday. Expected to compete for one of the starting linebacker roles, Owusu-Koramoah could now be setback for a week or so before rejoining his teammates.
Cleveland traded up for the Notre Dame star in the second round after considering him with their first-round pick as well. Scouts loved the linebacker’s ability to run sideline to sideline and cover all different kinds of offensive players in the pass game. While under traditional weight for a linebacker, Owusu-Koramoah is also a bigger hitter.
Following the NFL draft, reports surfaced that the Browns rookie fell into the second round due to a heart issue. The team and player minimized any concerns but those could become more pressing with his placement on the COVID-19 list.
Last year, Myles Garrett was diagnosed with COVID-19 and continued to struggle with his conditioning following his return.
With Anthony Walker, Malcolm Smith and Jacob Phillips battling for, likely, two starting linebacker spots, Owusu-Koramoah’s absence could put him behind greatly to start the season. Rookies tend to have some struggles adjusting to the NFL speed and now missing live reps at training camp could make that last longer.
With significant rules in place related to vaccinated and unvaccinated players, COVID-19 has continued to be front and center for the NFL. For the Browns, who lost a lot of practice time and different players missing games, COVID-19 continues to impact their organization.