Linebacker placed on IR

BEREA, Ohio — The Cleveland Browns will be down a key defensive player for Sunday’s home opener and maybe an offensive starter as well.

Starting linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. was placed on injured reserve Friday and will miss at least three games with a hamstring injury, a loss that will have a ripple effect through Cleveland’s defense.

“He’s a big part of what we do,” Coach Kevin Stefanski said. “Obviously, schematically, X’s and O’s, he’s a big part of who we are, and he’s a great leader. He’s going to continue to lead, even though he’s not playing.”

Walker, who signed as a free agent in March after four seasons with Indianapolis, got hurt during Thursday’s practice. He led Cleveland with nine tackles in last week’s 33-29 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs and he’s also the Browns’ signal-caller on defense.

“He’s definitely a big piece for us on the defense,” said 2020 All-Pro end Myles Garrett. “He’s great at getting the calls out, getting it to us quick, making sure we’re lined up in the right spot.”

Mack Wilson would seem to be the most likely candidate to take over for Walker.