Browns officially name Kevin Hogan starter over DeShone Kizer

The Cleveland Browns have decided to make a change at quarterback in the wake of some of the struggles that rookie DeShone Kizer has had in the early part of the season.

On Wednesday, Browns head coach Hue Jackson released a statement explaining his decision to go with Kevin Hogan over Kizer in Week 6 against the Houston Texans.

“I’ve made the decision to start Kevin this week,” Jackson said. “We’ve liked what Kevin has been able to do within our offense when he’s been in there and he will ‪start on Sunday because that’s what we feel is best for our team at this point in time. This does not change the way we feel about DeShone going forward. He has worked extremely hard and still very much has a bright future. Right now, it’s better for him and his development to back up Kevin.”

Kizer was benched at halftime of Cleveland’s Week 5 loss to the New York Jets after completing just 8-of-17 passes for 87 yards and two turnovers. Hogan completed 16-of-19 passes for two touchdowns and an interception after taking over.

There was always some concern that the Browns were rushing Kizer into action, and it appears Jackson has decided the former Notre Dame star just isn’t ready. With the Browns still searching for their first win, Jackson’s job could very well be on the line. Kizer’s future in Cleveland could also be in question if the Browns land the top overall pick in next year’s draft.