Pine Forest alum Martin Emerson Jr.’s 2025 NFL season has ended before it even began.
Emerson, a cornerback with the Cleveland Browns, suffered a season-ending Achilles tear during a practice on July 29. Emerson had an MRI after the initial injury where he was carted off during practice. Browns coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed the devasting injury on July 30.
During the practice on July 29, Emerson was covering wide receiver Diontae Jonson on a go route, according to reporters. Emerson planted his leg at the end of the play and fell to the ground in pain, according to a report from Daniel Oyefusi. It was a non-contact injury, and Emerson didn’t put any weight on his leg as he was helped onto the cart.
“Disappointed. Obviously, injuries are the worst part about our game, but he will bounce back,” Stefanski said. “I know what he’s made of, and I know he’s got our support. He’s got his teammates’ support.”
“I’m a Warrior! I’ll be just fine. It’s a part of MY story, MY testimony,” Emerson Jr. posted on Instagram. “This will not be the end for me.”
Emerson was a third-round pick by Cleveland in 2022, and was set to enter the final year of his rookie contract. Back in 2022, Emerson signed a four-year deal for nearly $5.5 million. Just about $1.16 million of it was fully guaranteed with a signing bonus.
In 2024, Emerson recorded 80 tackles (62 solo, 18 assisted) with a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and five passes defended. In his NFL career, he’s tallied 202 tackles and four interceptions.
Emerson, a Mississippi State and Pine Forest alum, was a two-time PNJ First Team All-Area selection at defensive back. He’s come back the last three summers to host a youth camp at Pine Forest, which was just held in the beginning of July.
“Sometimes I just have to take myself outside my body and just cherish the moment. I remember days where I would just stay here after school, and I would be the only one out here, just grinding just so I could come back, and give back by doing things like this,” Emerson previously told the PNJ. “It is just a blessing. I just thank God for this opportunity.”
ESPN already reported that Greg Newsome II will take Emerson’s spot in the Browns’ base defense. The team will “work through” who will take over the nickel cornerback spot left open by Newsome’s move.
This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Cleveland Browns’ Martin Emerson out for 2025 season with Achilles tear
Reporting by Ben Grieco, Pensacola News Journal / Pensacola News Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
