Cleveland Browns defensive backs Denzel Ward and Kevin Johnson were both activated off the reserve/COVID-19 list after missing the past two games, including Sunday’s playoff victory over Pittsburgh.
Ward, a Pro Bowl selection as a rookie in 2018, has been Cleveland’s top corner this season. Despite missing four games this year, Ward led the NFL during the regular season with 16 passes defended.
A free-agent signing this offseason, Johnson was a starter at nickelback for the Browns.
Cleveland is still hoping to get Pro Bowl guard Joel Bitonio off the reserve/COVID-19 list as well.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski, who also tested positive for the virus last week, said he expects to rejoin the team by Thursday’s practice. Offensive line coach Bill Callahan has rejoined the team from the COVID list.
The Browns face the top-seeded Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC divisional round on Sunday.