BEREA, Ohio -- Case Keenum, the Cleveland Browns' quarterback, will start against the Denver Broncos on Thursday. Baker Mayfield is still recovering from a torn labrum in the left side of his non-throwing shoulder.
Mayfield was a limited participant in Tuesday's practice. He stated earlier that he intended to start, and that it would be his choice. Mayfield said that he would only play if his injury didn't hinder the team or his performance.
Mayfield stated Tuesday that only she knows how her body feels. "If anyone asks me if I'm hurting the team or going out there with injuries, that's not right. It is my choice. It's my decision whether or not I can play.
Mayfield sustained the shoulder injury Sept. 19, while trying to tackle after throwing an intercept. He played through the injury, with a harness around his shoulder to support him, but the injury was worsened Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals.
His first game as the Browns' starting quarterback will be his last since Week 3 of 2018, when he assumed the role. His 51 regular-season starts are the fourth-longest streak among quarterbacks.
ESPN was informed Tuesday by a league source that Mayfield hopes to avoid season-ending surgery.
Keenum will make the Washington Football Team's first start since the 2019 season. He led the Minnesota Vikings to their playoffs in 2017.
Kevin Stefanski, Browns coach, stated that he has full faith in Baker to lead them and do all the necessary things to help us win. "Baker worked hard to play, he is a competitor and obviously wants out there, but he couldn't make it in a short week. We are confident that he will do all he can to get back as soon as possible.
Since last season, Keenum has been Mayfield’s backup. He played in four games for the Browns and completed 6 of 13 passes for 52 yard.
