Browns get top CB Denzel Ward back from covid-19 list

Cleveland Browns rookie coach Kevin Stefanski said he’s on track to return to the team Thursday for playoff preparations after missing Sunday’s wild-card win in Pittsburgh with covid-19. He’ll get a few of his best players back, too.

Stefanski jokingly called himself “probable” when asked if he’ll return as the Browns get ready to face the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday.

Cleveland activated cornerbacks Denzel Ward and Kevin Johnson from the covid-19 list Wednesday. Also, offensive line coach Bill Callahan returned to the team after being one of four assistants sidelined by the virus.

Pro Bowl left guard Joel Bitonio remains in isolation, and the Browns are hoping to get him back in the next day or two.

The 38-year-old Stefanski tested positive with the virus last week and couldn’t be with his team when the Browns won their first playoff game in 26 years by upsetting the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Stefanski watched the game from his home’s basement in Rocky River, Ohio, and admitted to pacing in front of the TV during the telecast. Stefanski said he’s lost his sense of taste but had mostly mild symptoms during his illness.