Pierre Strong Jr., a Cleveland Browns running back, departed practice in an ambulance Wednesday after suffering a rib contusion. Strong, 25, was hurt while racing through hanging tackling dummies, according to sources. He walked off the field with trainers and into an ambulance as a precaution after experiencing shortness of breath. He was later discharged from University Hospitals.
“Pierre has done a really nice job in special teams, a really nice job in the run game, pass protection, pass game, obviously has always been good in that area,” Kevin Stefanski, Cleveland’s assistant coach, said. Stefanski also confirmed that Denzel Ward, a cornerback, has suffered his fifth concussion. Ward has been in the concussion protocol since August 12. “We have a great medical team and great resources when guys are in that protocol, and I’m confident in that,” Stefanski told reporters.
Stefanski also stated that safety Ronnie Hickman is “close” to returning from his injury. Meanwhile, quarterback Deshaun Watson was limited during Wednesday’s practice due to general arm pain. “I decided to hold back a little bit with him, but not be overly concerned,” Stefanski said of Watson. “He could’ve gone. He’s doing nicely.”
Strong is the Browns’ second running back to leave practice in an ambulance. D’Onta Foreman was sent to the hospital for a neck injury early in training camp. He’s since returned to action. In late August 2023, the Browns acquired Strong as part of a trade with the New England Patriots. With Nick Chubb remaining on the physically unable to perform list, Strong is ranked second on the Browns depth chart after Jerome Ford. Last season, Strong rushed for 291 yards and a score in 17 games (one start), while also catching five passes for 47 yards.
