CLEVELAND (AP) — Case Keenum stepped in for Baker Mayfield and made the most of his first start in two years, leading Cleveland’s injury-ravaged offense and the Browns to a 17-14 win over the Denver Broncos.
Keenum didn’t put up impressive stats, but he threw a touchdown pass and did enough — as did Cleveland’s maligned defense — to get the Browns a much-needed win.
They survived without Mayfield, who sat out with a shoulder injury and could miss more time.
Browns third-string back D’Ernest Johnson had a career-high 146 yards and a 4-yard TD.
The Broncos lost their fourth straight and star linebacker Von Miller left in the first half with a leg injury and didn’t return.
Mayfield injury update
A person familiar with Baker Mayfield’s health said the Browns quarterback also is dealing with a broken bone in his injured left shoulder but believes he can play with it.
Mayfield hopes the injury improves enough over the next few days that he can face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Oct. 31.
Mayfield didn’t play Thursday night against Denver, ending his streak of 53 consecutive starts for the banged-up Browns.
Fox was first to report the extent of Mayfield’s injury during its pregame show.
Mayfield told the network he broke the top of his humerus bone.