Browns get grim outlook on standout DT Maliek Collins

The Cleveland Browns have been dealt another injury blow to a standout performer after their humiliating loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Defensive tackle Maliek Collins, who was in the midst of a Pro Bowl season with 6.5 sacks along the interior of the Cleveland defense, is out for the season with a serious calf injury.

Collins exited the game in the second half against the 49ers and was then carted back to the locker room. Collins is the latest in a string of defensive line injuries. Both defensive end Alex Wright and defensive tackle Adin Huntington already missed the game with quad injuries, and then defensive end Isaiah McGuire exited the game with an injury as well.

The Browns will get Collins back next season, however, as he signed a two-year deal with the team this offseason. That is good news for the likes of Mason Graham, who continues to get better every week, and likely NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, who is in the midst of chasing history. Having Collins along the interior of the offensive line has freed up those two to take on more advantageous matchups.

As the Browns get set to take on the Tennessee Titans, they will be without Collins and starting right guard Wyatt Teller. Despite their record at just 1-11 on the season, no team can be overlooked by the 3-9 Browns.

This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Browns get grim outlook on standout DT Maliek Collins