BEREA, Ohio -- Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield stated that it is possible for him to return Sunday against Pittsburgh Steelers following a left shoulder injury.
Mayfield said that his torn labrum and tuberosity fracture in his non-throwing arm were already feeling better after sitting last Thursday's game against Denver Broncos. He hopes to continue making progress this week in order to be back in time for the Steelers.
"It certainly [helped]. Mayfield stated that there was a noticeable improvement in strength and range of motion before Wednesday's practice. He had been off for a while. "Trying to get strength back so that I can go as close as possible to 100 percent. If that is not possible, we can trust the men we have.
Mayfield had been battling the labrum injury since Week 2. However, Mayfield suffered a worsening injury on Oct. 17, when he was playing against Arizona. Mayfield tried out last week, vowing to play against Denver. However, he was eventually ruled out. Backup Case Keenum took his place and the Browns won 17-14.
Mayfield, who has never missed an NFL game due to injury, said Wednesday that the inflammation in his shoulder was too severe for him not to return on Wednesday.
He said, "I said it last Wednesday. If I feel like I'm unable to be near 100 percent and be capable of helping this team -- or if I find myself in a position where I'm going hurt the team -- then I'm not going."
Mayfield said that keeping inflammation at bay, so he can regain strength and range of motion, is the key to Sunday's return.
He said, "I'm looking to take it day-by-day." "I think you guys understand how I feel. "I want to be out there playing."
