The Cleveland Browns faced a significant absence during Thursday’s practice ahead of their season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals. Star pass rusher and the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Myles Garrett, was unable to practice due to a hip injury, as the team announced.

Cleveland’s injury report did not include Garrett on Wednesday, indicating that the injury likely occurred between the start of Wednesday’s practice and Thursday’s session. Garrett’s availability will be closely watched as the team prepares for their matchup against the Bengals. If he is unable to play, Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, a veteran with 15 regular-season sacks, is expected to step in as the starter at left defensive end for Cleveland.

Garrett’s versatility allows him to play various positions along the Browns’ defensive line, and his absence could necessitate significant adjustments in the game plan from defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. His historical performance is notable—Garrett has recorded nine sacks against Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow.

At just 29, Garrett has only missed two games since the beginning of the 2021 season and participated in all 17 regular-season games last year, earning All-Pro honors for the fourth time after recording 14 sacks and leading the NFL with 22 tackles for loss.

Heading into Sunday’s game, the Browns are seen as underdogs, as the Bengals have won their last three encounters, dating back to the 2023 season.