Harold Fannin Jr. injury update: Groin issue puts Browns tight end and fantasy lineups in doubt ahead of Steelers game | NFL News
Harold Fannin Jr. became a major talking point on Friday, December 20, when injury news suddenly changed the mood around the Cleveland Browns. The rookie tight end, who has been one of the team’s most reliable targets this season, was added to the injury report with a groin issue. The update came just days before a key late-season game and left fantasy football players uneasy.Harold Fannin Jr. picked up the injury during practice on Friday in Berea, Ohio. The timing matters. He was not listed on the injury report earlier in the week. With playoff hopes and fantasy championships on the line, the news landed at the worst possible moment.
Harold Fannin Jr. injury update creates problems for Cleveland Browns ahead of Steelers clash
Harold Fannin Jr. was officially listed as questionable after Friday’s practice. The Cleveland Browns confirmed the tight end suffered a groin injury during team drills. The update was first reported by Adam Schefter on Friday afternoon.The Browns are preparing to face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, December 22, at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh. Losing Harold Fannin Jr. would hurt, especially because tight end David Njoku has already been ruled out for the game.Harold Fannin Jr. has been a bright spot all season. Last week, he set the Browns’ single-season rookie record for receptions during their game against the Chicago Bears. Coaches praised his route running and calm play under pressure. Head coach Kevin Stefanski said earlier this week that Fannin had “earned trust fast” within the offense.Now, that momentum is in danger. A late-week groin injury is tricky. The Browns will test his movement during warmups before making a final call on game day.Fantasy football managers are watching closely. Harold Fannin Jr. has been a popular waiver-wire pickup since midseason. Many managers planned to start him in Week 17 due to his steady targets and red-zone looks. If Harold Fannin Jr. cannot play, Cleveland will turn to Blake Whiteheart and Brenden Bates. Blake Whiteheart is known more for receiving work, while Brenden Bates is mainly used as a blocker. Neither has matched Fannin’s chemistry with quarterback Joe Flacco this season.The Browns did not hold media availability after Friday’s practice, but team officials confirmed more updates will come on Saturday. For now, the situation remains uncertain, and both the Browns and fantasy players are waiting for clarity before kickoff.Also Read: Jaxson Dart Vs Travis Hunter Net Worth In 2025: Who Is Richer, NIL Deals, Early Fame And More
