Cleveland Browns Lose Star Defensive Tackle Mason Graham to Injury

Early Exit Against Steelers

The Cleveland Browns secured a hard-fought victory on Thursday night, but it came at a very high cost. Defensive tackle Mason Graham is now expected to miss a few weeks of action after suffering two distinct injuries during the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The injury occurred very early in the contest, during Pittsburgh's opening offensive series. Graham was engaged with a blocker when his left leg bent awkwardly. It was immediately clear that the defensive lineman was in pain.

Graham was able to walk to the medical tent, though he needed some assistance to do so. After being evaluated in the tent, he walked back to the locker room for further examination. He did not return to the game.

A Tough Blow for Cleveland

Tests later revealed that Graham suffered both an MCL sprain and an ankle sprain. After the game, which the Browns won by a score of 27-24, Graham was seen leaving the locker room on crutches. He was also wearing a protective brace on his injured leg.

This is a massive loss for the Cleveland defense. Graham was the number five overall pick in the 2025 draft and has been enjoying a spectacular start to his second season in the NFL.

Before getting hurt, Graham had established himself as the most productive pass rusher on the team. His four sacks lead the Browns this season. That number also ties him for the second most sacks in the entire NFL. Cleveland will now have to find a way to replace that production up front while Graham recovers over the next few weeks.

What it means for the next game

Cleveland Browns at New York Jets (NFL, Sun, 11 Oct): New York Jets win 53%, Cleveland Browns win 47%; projected score New York Jets 21, Cleveland Browns 19. Our safest pick: Under 46.5 points.