AFC Notes: Broncos, Browns, Ravens

Broncos

The Broncos had no shortage of problems in a 48-19 loss to the Bills. But they didn’t get much help from fill-in K Taylor Russolino, promoted from the practice squad for the game after K Brandon McManus was out due to the COVID-19 protocols. Russolino missed two of the three extra points he attempted and another field goal, shattering the optimism HC Vic Fangio had coming into the game. 

“He had a really good day in practice the other day and I was encouraged by him. Obviously, there was some wind out there, but it didn’t bother their kicker,” Fangio said via SI.com’s Zack Kelberman. “I thought he was going to kick better than he did.”

Browns

Browns QB Baker Mayfield said he is committed to being a leader of the organization. 

“I want to be authentic and lead these guys. I’m passionate about the game, so I appreciate that,” Mayfield said, via Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal. 

Mayfield said the Browns’ goal is still to reach the AFC Playoffs. 

“We have a big picture mindset, but the singular focus is just so vital right now to get into the postseason,” Mayfield said. “We know we have to take care of business this week, and we’re going to have that singular focus.”

Ravens

Ravens WR Dez Bryant scored his first touchdown since the 2017 season on Sunday. After the game, Bryant told reporters that his daughter motivated him to work to get back to this point. 

“After I realized I scored, the first person I thought of was my baby girl,” Bryant said. “I had no intentions of playing ball. If it wasn’t for her, I don’t think I’d be out here. So that’s why I’ve got this football right here. This is the one I scored with and I’m gonna give that to my baby girl because she’s the reason I’m out here.”

“I’m being honest, I had to hold back my tears because it was very emotional,” Bryant added. “These guys here, they are 100. They are amazing, phenomenal people.”