Browns Rookie Likely Headed to IR After Latest Injury

Browns Rookie Kaleb Eleby's Season in Jeopardy After Fractured Elbow

The Cleveland Browns' quarterback room has taken another hit, as rookie Kaleb Eleby is likely headed to injured reserve after suffering a fractured elbow in Friday's preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Eleby, 22, was carted off the field after being sacked by Eagles defensive end Josh Sweat in the second quarter. He was initially diagnosed with a dislocated elbow, but further tests revealed a fracture.

The injury is a major setback for the Browns, who were already thin at quarterback. Deshaun Watson is serving an 11-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, and backup Jacoby Brissett is dealing with a knee injury.

Eleby's Injury Could Open the Door for Josh Rosen

With Eleby out, the Browns will likely turn to Josh Rosen as their backup quarterback. Rosen, 25, was acquired in a trade with the Arizona Cardinals in July.

Rosen has started 16 games in his NFL career, but he has yet to live up to the hype that surrounded him when he was drafted 10th overall by the Cardinals in 2018.

However, Rosen has shown flashes of potential in the preseason, and he could be a valuable asset to the Browns if he can stay healthy.

Browns Face Tough Decisions at Quarterback

The Browns now have a difficult decision to make at quarterback. They could choose to keep Rosen as their backup and hope that he can develop into a reliable option behind Brissett.

Another option would be to sign a veteran quarterback, such as AJ McCarron or Josh McCown. The Browns have also been linked to Jimmy Garoppolo, but it is unclear if the San Francisco 49ers are willing to trade him.

No matter what the Browns decide to do, they will need to find a way to replace Eleby's production. The rookie was expected to be a key part of the Browns' offense this season, and his injury is a major blow.

The Browns will be back in action on Saturday, August 27, when they host the Chicago Bears in their final preseason game. It is unclear if Brissett will be healthy enough to play in that game, so Rosen could get the start.