The Cleveland Browns have made a quarterback change, installing Kevin Hogan as the starter in Sunday’s clash with the Houston Texans and relegating rookie DeShone Kizer as the backup. Browns head coach Hue Jackson said the decision was reached after evaluating the performances of their two signal callers in their 17-14 loss to the New York Jets Sunday, per NFL.com. Explaining his decision, Jackson said starting Hogan is the best option for the team right now. As for Kizer, Jackson stated that he remains part of the Browns’ future and playing backup to Hogan will help in his development.
Hogan will be the Browns' 28th starting quarterback since 1999.
Hogan to make first NFL start
Kizer struggled against the Jets, completing just 8-of-17 passes for 87 yards and an interception as the Browns went scoreless in the first half. Jackson then decided to replace Kizer with Hogan in the second half. The Browns’ offense ran better with Hogan under center as he threw for 194 yards and two touchdowns with an interception on 16-of-19 passing. Hogan also ran for 30 yards on four carries for the Browns (0-5). With a new role in hand, Hogan said he will work with the players around him to build trust and confidence before Sunday’s clash with the Texans. This will be Hogan’s first career start in the NFL after playing four games last season for the Browns.
In three games this season, Hogan completed 26-of-38 passes for 377 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions. Kizer, for his part, made five starts, completing 81-of-159 throws for 851 yards with three touchdowns and nine interceptions.
Brady returns to practice
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady returned to practice Wednesday after missing Tuesday's session due to an AC joint sprain in his non-throwing shoulder.
The injury took place during a close win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. Brady told reporters that he’s good and not worried about his shoulder injury, assuring reporters that he will play when they take on the New York Jets.
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick did not express any concern about his quarterback’s injury, saying Brady is as “physically and mentally tough as any player I've coached.” After being sacked just 15 times all of last season, the 40-year-old has taken 16 sacks this year. Despite the hits, Brady remained consistent with his play in five games, completing 133-of-195 throws for 1,702 yards and 11 scores with just one interception.
