AFC Notes: Broncos, Browns, Steelers

Broncos

Browns

• Cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot writes that Browns QB Baker Mayfield‘s wrist is fine and isn’t contributing to his early-season struggles. 
• Mayfield banged the wrist in the Browns’ first game, but X-rays were negative, he hasn’t needed any wrap or support in practice and doesn’t seem to be favoring the wrist. 
• Cabot says the early indications are that Browns LB Christian Kirksey‘s chest injury is a torn pectoral, which would knock him out for the rest of the season.
• Cabot mentions Browns DE Genard Avery has gotten caught in the transition from linebacker to defensive end in Cleveland’s new defensive scheme, resulting in his being inactive the first two weeks after a promising rookie season in 2018. 

Steelers

• According to CBS Sports’ Jason La Canfora, the Steelers were impressed by QB Mason Rudolph for his strong performances in college at Oklahoma State when they played Pitt. 
• The Steelers liked Rudolph so much they made sure to trade ahead of the Bengals, who were also rumored to be heavily interested, to select him in the third round in 2018. 
• NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport confirms the Steelers had a first-round grade on Rudolph when they selected him, and his presence helped them feel comfortable trading away a first-round pick in 2020 for S Minkah Fitzpatrick.
• Steelers WR Donte Moncrief was deactivated for Pittsburgh’s Week 3 game after starting the first two weeks and has work to do to get back in good standing with Steelers HC Mike Tomlin. (Mike Garafolo)