Cleveland Browns 2011 first round pick and promising defensive tackle Phil Taylor will need surgery to repair a torn pectoral muscle, according to Daryl Ruiter of 92.3 The Fan. Taylor sustained a torn left pectoral on Thursday while working out at the team's facilities. He underwent an MRI shortly thereafter, and an announcement was expected early next week.
But Browns head coach Pat Shurmur announced on Friday that Taylor's surgery is scheduled for the middle of next week. It was a disastrous way to open rookie mini-camp for the head coach. Taylor had a strong first season, anchoring the inside of the defense next to Ahtyba Rubin. The Browns have had problems with torn pecs recently, as All-Pro middle linebacker D'Qwell Jackson sustained two such injuries that have caused him to miss nearly two seasons.
Taylor is likely to miss four to sixth months, and his entire 2012 season with the Browns could be in jeopardy. It's a big blow to an area and position that many felt was the strongest on the club. Third-round pick John Hughes, who signed a four-year deal earlier this week, will certainly get increased time with the loss of Taylor.
For more on the Cleveland Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. More news on the NFL can be found at the SB Nation NFL hub.