The Browns might start looking at quarterback options sooner than anticipated.
Rookie Johnny Manziel had to leave the game after taking a hard shot just before halftime, and Brian Hoyer replaced him.
He was driven into the ground by Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly and safety Colin Jones as he ran for the sideline. Trainers took him to the locker room, as he draped a towel over his head.
They announced his injury as a hamstring, and he’s questionable to return.
Manziel has had a largely ineffective first half, though the playoff-hopeful Panthers have something to do with that. He’s still 3-of-8 for 32 yards passing, with two rushes for 3 yards.
Brian Hoyer didn’t exactly light it up in relief, as the Browns still trail 10-3.
UPDATE 2:44 p.m. ET: Hoyer took the field in the second half.