Browns Punter Reggie Hodges Out for Season With Torn Achilles

It was reported earlier today that Cleveland Browns punter Reggie Hodges left practice early after sustaining a leg injury. It was not known initially how serious the injury was, but now we do know, and the news isn’t good: Hodges will miss the 2011 season with a torn Achilles tendon.

Originally filling in for an injured Dave Zastudil two seasons ago, the Browns elected to keep Hodges going into last season. In 2010, he averaged 43.9 yards per kick, with 29 punts downed inside the 20-yard line and 15 inside the 10. Additionally, he was the holder on placekicks.

Judging by some players’ reactions, it is obvious that Hodges was a great teammate and respected in the locker room. You hate to see a guy go down with a season-ending injury in training camp, but hopefully it’s something he can come back from.

The Browns are expected to have a new punter signed by the end of Tuesday.