Browns DL Phil Taylor has knee surgery, could miss a 'few weeks'

Today, the Cleveland Browns confirmed that defensive lineman Phil Taylor underwent a minor arthroscopic procedure on his right knee this morning and that his status will be re-evaluated in a "few weeks."

Daryl Ruiter, Browns beat writer for 92.3 The Fan, reported the news first.

Taylor suffered the injury during last Sunday's victory over the Tennessee Titans, where he only played in nine snaps prior exiting the game.

The 26-year-old veteran in his fourth year has been struggling with the rest of the defensive unit as well, even before the injury. Starting in three of the four games this season, Taylor has only notched a combined seven tackles.

A first-round pick from 2011, Taylor emerged on the scene with a solid rookie campaign. A previous injury in 2012 then cut short his next season. By his third year in the NFL, the Browns made a significant switch at defensive coordinator, going from Dick Jauron and his 4-3 to Ray Horton and a hybrid 3-4.

Another year, another DC. This time it's been lead by new head coach Mike Pettine and his DC, Jim O'Neil. The primary base of a 3-4 has remained.

Regardless of struggles, with the loss of a starter on defense, Pettine's "next man up" philosophy will be utilized here. Though no major changes to the 53-man roster are expected.

With defensive linemen John Hughes or Ishmaa’ily Kitchen having been inactive last week, both are expected to be activated for the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers this Sunday, according the Pettine.