The Cleveland Browns will face a Denver Broncos team without one of its key defensive players.
The NFL suspended Broncos safety Kareem Jackson for four games after he hit Minnesota Vikings quarterback Joshua Dobbs in the head on Monday night, according to multiple reports. Jackson had previously been suspended for two games after an unnecessary roughness call in Week 7. This suspension was also due to those previous violations. Jackson can appeal the ruling.
Broncos’ DB Kareem Jackson has been suspended without pay for four games for repeated violations of playing rules intended to protect the health and safety of players, including during Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings. pic.twitter.com/RGMZ7VGnaL
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 20, 2023
The loss of Jackson means the Broncos will likely play third-string Delarrin Turner-Yell at safety if P.J. Locke, Jackson’s backup, can’t play. Locke started in place of Jackson in Week 9, left during Week 10 and missed Week 11 with a calf injury when Jackson returned. Turner-Yell played in place of Locke in Week 10 where he tallied five combined tackles.
No Jackson will be a boon for Cleveland’s passing attack. Browns starter Dorian Thompson-Robinson attempted 43 passers in the Week 11 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, but only completed 24 of his passes for 165 yards, no touchdowns and one interception. The Broncos pass defense has been solid during their four-game win streak as well: They haven’t allowed a quarterback to pass for more than 212 yards.