The Cleveland Browns are coming off a huge win in Week 1, a 24-3 trouncing over division rival Cincinnati Bengals, but the victory came at a cost. During the win right tackle Jack Conklin was carted off the field with a lower body injury and did not return.

The Browns, and their fans, hoped the news would be a best-case scenario, but it turned into a worst-case scenario. Monday it is being reported Conklin will miss the rest of the 2023 regular season after tearing his ACL and MCL in his knee.

This per ESPN’s Adam Schefter:

Tests revealed that Browns’ right tackle Jack Conklin tore his ACL and MCL and will have season-ending surgery, per source.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 11, 2023

The Browns now prepare for the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday Night Football in Week 2, and the absence of Conklin could have a big impact on the game. The reason being is T.J. Watt, who predominantly plays on the left side of the defensive front, will go against the Browns next-best right tackle.

In Week 1, Watt was able to garner 3 sacks of Brock Purdy as he harassed the young play caller while also having a pass defense, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery. Could Watt have another big game and cause big problems for Deshaun Watson and company? With Conklin in the lineup it would be a much bigger challenge, but as of now it seems as if the advantage is clearly leaning Watt’s way heading into the prime time game in Pittsburgh.

Be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they prepare for the Week 2 prime time matchup with the Browns.