Browns Will Be Without Leading Tackler D’Qwell Jackson for Two Weeks

Filed under: Browns, AFC North, NFL Injuries

This won’t help an already hobbled — and, let’s be frank, porous — Browns defense. Last year’s second-round pick, middle linebacker D’Qwell Jackson, will miss two weeks with the dreaded high-ankle sprain. If history is any guide, Jackson will be out more than two weeks, unless he’s getting some fancy-pants ankle transplant. (High-ankle sprains are notoriously slow-healing, but, who am I, Trapper, John?)

The former Maryland Terrapin leads the team in tackles — according to ESPN.com’s Len Pasquarelli, he has 60 total, and three games with 10 or more. Unfortunately, Jackson’s steady play hasn’t had much effect on the defense’s overall effectiveness. Football Outsiders ranks the Browns 29th in total defense (31st against the pass; 18th against the run), and the Seahawks, their opponent Sunday, feature the 12th-ranked passing attack.

Of course, running back Shaun Alexander hasn’t had a decent run in 11 months, so that may make the Browns’ job a tad easier. And claiming former Steelers second-round pick Ricardo Colclough off waivers also “adds depth.” (Although he’s slightly more effective than a scarecrow in a football helmet, he might be of some help … even if accidentally.) Or they can just leave it in the capable hands of their secret weapon.

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