(Cleveland) The Cleveland Browns lost their second starting tackle in two days when Jedrick Wills Jr. underwent season-ending knee surgery Tuesday.
Wills’ name had been on the long-term injured list since November 7. The Browns (8-5) were hoping the left tackle could return this season. However, the 2020 first-round pick opted to have this surgery.
The procedure was performed by the team’s head physician, Dr. James Voos, who expects to complete rehabilitation in time for the start of the 2024 season.
Wills was injured in the Browns’ 27-0 win over the Arizona Cardinals on November 5.
On Monday, the Browns indicated that rookie right tackle Dawand Jones would also miss the remainder of the season. Injured in training last week, the six-foot-eight, 375-pound colossus requires surgery on his right knee shortly.
A fourth-round pick, Jones was having a good season replacing Jack Conklin, who tore knee ligaments in the season opener.
The Browns managed to stay in the playoff race despite key injuries on offense. They are without starting quarterback Deshaun Watson (shoulder), running back Nick Chubb (knee) and now all three of their main blockers.
Geron Christian replaces Wills, while James Hudson III took Jones’ place as the starter on Sunday.
The Browns, who currently occupy fifth place in the American League, will host the Chicago Bears on Sunday.