The Cleveland Browns lost linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah in Week 8's win over Baltimore last season with a frightening neck injury.
Very little was reported about his injury through the remainder of last season, but there was hope he might resume his career in 2025 after he was seen at the Browns' facility earlier this offseason.
Indeed, in December, Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot reported he was improving.
“Owusu-Koramoah is improving by the week but is still not ready to start practicing. I would be surprised if he makes it back this season given the serious nature of the neck injury,” Cabot said.
But we got the update we didn't want to hear on Monday, as Cleveland announced Owusu-Koramoah would be placed on the Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform List and miss next season. … and now after the frightening injury comes the suggestion that he may never play again.
After the news release, JOK posted a heartwarming message to fans on social media.
"From day one, you embraced me as more than a player, but also as a brother and young man with purpose," Owusu-Koramoah wrote. "While I won't suit up this season, I'm focused on what I can control — my healing, my mindset and my faith. The body may rest, but the calling never sleeps.
"I've given my heart to this game. I don't know what's next, but I'll continue trusting my medical team, serving my community and backing my brothers on the field."
Owusu-Koramoah was having another Pro Bowl-caliber season before the injury with 61 tackles, three sacks, three pass breakups and one interception.
Now we'll wait and cross our fingers that he can recover fully, whether it involves football or not.