The Cleveland Browns will enter their matchup against the Green Bay Packers with mixed circumstances regarding player availability.
Veteran guard Joel Bitonio has been cleared to play despite a lingering back problem, while wide receiver Jerry Jeudy will be sidelined after a league fine for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Bitonio, one of the NFL‘s most consistent offensive linemen, was held out of practice all week while recovering from the back issue.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry evaluated the All-Pro during pregame warmups before confirming his participation.
Stefanski noted that the staff tracked Bitonio‘s daily progress and concluded his experience allows him to perform effectively without a full week of practice.
Quarterback Joe Flacco emphasized the respect Bitonio commands within the locker room, pointing to his willingness to compete through discomfort.
The veteran guard himself acknowledged that the injury can surface unpredictably but explained that he has managed similar problems in the past and understands what treatments provide relief.
His availability offers stability for a unit that faces a physical Packers front.
The Browns see Bitonio‘s presence as particularly valuable while the offense works to establish rhythm.
The line’s ability to protect and create opportunities in the running game will be tested against Green Bay‘s defensive front, making his return a significant boost.
Jeudy disciplined following fine
While Bitonio strengthens the lineup, Cleveland will be without Jerry Jeudy. The wide receiver was fined $14,491 by the NFL after making an obscene gesture toward Baltimore Ravens fans during pregame introductions in Week 3.
The gesture, though occurring before kickoff and therefore outside the league’s standard weekly fine report, drew attention from both the league office and opposing supporters.
The Browns confirmed Jeudy will not take the field this week, limiting options for an offense already searching for greater consistency.
His absence follows a disappointing 41-17 loss to Baltimore in which the Browns struggled to sustain drives, while the Ravens exploited defensive matchups to seize control early. Without Jeudy, Cleveland will need contributions from other receivers to maintain balance.
Flacco, who is also unavailable for this contest, commented more broadly on patience and opportunity in the NFL, noting that players must remain ready to contribute when their chances arise.
His remarks underscored the importance of discipline and preparation, traits the Browns are seeking as they navigate early-season challenges.
The contrasting situations of Bitonio and Jeudy reflect the balance Cleveland is attempting to strike between competitiveness and accountability.
Bitonio‘s determination to play through discomfort provides an example of resilience and leadership, while Jeudy‘s suspension highlights the consequences of conduct that distracts from performance on the field.
Cleveland now turns attention to Green Bay with the hope that veteran leadership on the offensive line can offset the loss of a high-profile target in the passing game.
The outcome will depend on whether the team can adapt to roster adjustments while maintaining the discipline and consistency required for long-term success.
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