Browns Starting LB Christian Kirksey Heading to IR With Chest Injury
By Ryan Flores
On Monday night, Cleveland Browns starting linebacker and team captain Christian Kirksey suffered a serious chest injury, believed to be a torn pectoral muscle. It's not known whether the pec is fully torn, but either way, Kirksey is back on the injured reserve, where he spent the final seven games of last season with a hamstring injury.
Kirksey was able to play just seven games in 2018, totaling 43 tackles, five passes defended and two interceptions.
The #Browns are elevating former UDFA Willie Harvey Jr. from the practice squad to the 53-man roster, source said. With starter Christian Kirksey seeking opinions on his torn biceps, Harvey steps in Sunday.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 21, 2019
In a corresponding move, UDFA Willie Harvey Jr. was promoted from the practice squad to take Kirksey's place. However, Harvey Jr. will back up rookie linebacker Mack Wilson, who is expected to step into Kirksey's place for Sunday night's tilt against the Los Angeles Rams.
#Browns Rookie fifth-round draft pick Mack Wilson will start in place of the injured Christian Kirksey versus the Rams. pic.twitter.com/ETKra6zKic
— Everything Cleveland (@EverythingCLE_) September 21, 2019
Kirksey was enjoying a solid start to the year, putting together 11 tackles, including two tackles for loss. Prior to the hamstring injury, Kirksey had yet to miss a game in four seasons, but now it seems as though he's having trouble staying healthy.
The Browns have had to endure a slew of injuries as of late, as tight end David Njoku was also placed on the injured reserve due to a wrist injury, and safety Damarious Randall is still in concussion protocol.
Get well soon, Christian. Cleveland needs you back as soon as possible.