Browns’ Martin Emerson Jr. Suffers Potentially Season-Ending Injury During Crucial Playoff Run

Cleveland Browns Cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. Suffers Potential Season-Ending Injury
By Alex Raskin | Updated: 05:07 BST, 30 July 2025

Cleveland Browns starting cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. may miss the 2025 NFL season after suffering a suspected Achilles injury during training camp Tuesday. The 24-year-old collapsed mid-drill, screaming in pain before being carted off the field. An MRI is pending to confirm a rupture, but team officials fear the worst.

Emerson suffered the injury during a routine drill in Berea, Ohio.

The Mississippi State alum had been vocal about overcoming previous setbacks earlier in the day. “My body was on a downward spiral last season,” Emerson told reporters, citing undisclosed injuries. “I worked my tail off to come back stronger.” He added six pounds of muscle this offseason to prepare.

Emerson’s injury comes at a critical juncture in his career. Set to become a free agent in 2026, he’s earned just $4.5 million over his three-year rookie contract. A lost season could drastically impact his market value.

Emerson recorded four interceptions during his standout 2023 campaign.

Browns’ Defensive Shake-Up
Cleveland’s defense, already reeling from linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah’s season-ending neck injury, will likely promote Greg Newsome II to starting cornerback opposite Denzel Ward. Depth options Cameron Mitchell and Chigozie Anusiem could also see expanded roles.

QB Battle Overshadows Camp
The Browns’ quarterback competition remains unresolved. Veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett are splitting first-team reps, while rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders—son of NFL legend Deion Sanders—handle backup duties.

Off-Field Turmoil
Second-round RB Quinshon Judkins remains absent following a domestic violence arrest earlier this month. His departure leaves a void after longtime starter Nick Chubb’s exit.

The injury could impact Emerson’s 2026 free agency prospects.

A team source called the situation “devastating,” noting Emerson’s dedication to rebounding in 2025. The Browns open the preseason August 9 against the Detroit Lions.

Key Points:

• Emerson’s injury occurred during non-contact drills.
• Cleveland’s defense loses two starters before Week 1.
• QB competition features four players vying for the role.
• Rookie RB Judkins’ future remains uncertain.

Follow DailyMail Sport for updates on Emerson’s diagnosis and Browns training camp developments.

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