Already down two starters on the defensive line due to suspensions, the Browns could also be without starting DE Olivier Vernon for a third straight week.
Vernon missed Thursday’s practice session in Berea. He has been out since injuring his knee near the end of the loss to Denver in Week 9. It’s hard to envision Vernon playing against Miami on Sunday in FirstEnergy Stadium if he doesn’t return to at least limited duty in Friday’s final practice session.
If Vernon can’t go, the starting EDGEs figure to be Chad Thomas and Chris Smith, with Bryan Cox Jr. as the only healthy reserve currently on the active roster.
Defensive back Eric Murray also remains sidelined with a knee injury of his own. Murray has also missed the last two games.
They were the only two Browns players who did not participate on even a limited basis in Thursday’s practice.
