The Cleveland Browns have made a notable move to bolster their kicking game by signing kicker Riley Patterson to the practice squad. This decision comes in response to the injury sustained by their original kicker, Dustin Hopkins, during Sunday’s game against the Houston Texans.
Riley Patterson, currently in his third NFL season, entered the league as an undrafted free agent with the Minnesota Vikings in 2021. Over the course of his career, Patterson has demonstrated reliability, making 58 of 66 field goal attempts and 87 of 90 extra point attempts. This season, he has played in 13 games for the Detroit Lions.
The need for Patterson’s services arose when Dustin Hopkins, the Browns’ original kicker, suffered a hamstring injury in the first half of their game against the Texans. The injury occurred as Hopkins attempted to make a tackle during a Texans kick return, forcing him to be ruled out for the remainder of the game.
The signing of Riley Patterson to the practice squad is likely a strategic move to provide depth at the kicking position and ensure the team has a reliable option in case Hopkins’ injury keeps him sidelined for an extended period. As the Browns aim to stay competitive in the postseason race, having a capable kicker is crucial, and Patterson’s proven track record makes him a valuable addition to the team, even if initially on the practice squad.
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