Browns wait for Bitonio, Ward, lose backups to injuries

CLEVELAND (AP) — The Browns' injury issues aren't easing. As they wait for Pro Bowl guard Joel Bitonio and top cornerback Denzel Ward to return from COVID-19 and join their playoff run, the team lost their replacements to injuries. Cleveland placed guard Michael Dunn and cornerback Robert Jackson on injured reserve, losing two players who started Sunday’s playoff win at Pittsburgh. Bitonio and Ward remain sidelined with the virus. Dunn injured his calf during the fourth quarter while Jackson suffered a hamstring injury. Bitonio and Ward could be back this week for the Browns game on Sunday against the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs.