Dec. 26, 2025, 1:43 p.m. ET
BEREA — The reinforcements are on their way for the Browns. Will it be enough for them to salvage a late-season win over the Pittsburgh Steelers?
Cleveland’s list of players who missed practice Dec. 26 was just one: Tight end David Njoku, who remains out with a knee injury. However, the number of players who continued to trend toward playing against the Steelers, including cornerback Denzel Ward who is expected to play after not being given an injury designation for the game.
The only problem for the Browns was the late addition of one of their most productive players. Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. was listed as questionable due to a groin injury, one of six to have that designation along with quarterback Dillon Gabriel (left shoulder), cornerback Myles Harden (shoulder), defensive tackle Sam Kamara (elbow), running back Dylan Sampson (hand) and right guard Wyatt Teller (calf).
Fannin’s status will be the one most closely followed. However, Gabriel’s status will likely lead to Bailey Zappe being elevated from the practice squad to potentially be the backup, coach Kevin Stefanski said.
The number of those players being able to play will be big against a Steelers team that may or may not be playing for anything by the time kickoff rolls around. Pittsburgh (9-6) would clinch the AFC North division championship if the Baltimore Ravens (7-8) lose on Saturday night at the Green Bay Packers.
If the Ravens can beat the Packers, then the Steelers can clinch the AFC North by beating the Browns. If Baltimore wins and Pittsburgh loses, their Week 18 game in Pittsburgh would determine the division title.
The Browns can only control what they do in the game Sunday, which is why the return of several key players from injury is welcomed news. Cleveland has won five of its last six at home against the Steelers, including its last three.
Chris Easterling can be reached at ceasterling@thebeaconjournal.com. Read more about the Browns at www.beaconjournal.com/sports/browns. Follow him on X at @ceasterlingABJ