Odell Beckham Jr's departure from the Cleveland Browns is something that still stings for teammate Jarvis Landry.
Veteran wide receiver Beckham was released by the Browns last week, a move that came after his father complained on social media about his lack of involvement in the team's offense.
Beckham Sr posted an 11-minute video on Instagram, highlighting moments he felt Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield had failed to find his son.
Mayfield later stated he considered Beckham a "good friend" and wished him well.
Three-time Pro Bowler Beckham was sidelined with a torn ACL in 2020 and made 17 catches for 232 yards and zero touchdowns in six games for the Browns this season, before signing for the Los Angeles Rams.
For Landry, the exit of his friend is something that remains difficult to accept.
"It definitely was something that hurt. It stung. It still does," Jarvis said in quotes reported by the Akron Beacon Journal.
Mayfield's own form has been under scrutiny as he battles several injury complaints. Already contending with a left shoulder issue that may require surgery down the line, Mayfield has a sore foot and now a contusion on his right knee.
He threw for only 73 yards as the Browns were hammered 45-7 by the New England Patriots over the weekend but Landry leapt to the defence of his teammate.
"He's a tough man, and he's doing all the things necessary to make sure that he can be out there with us," Landry said.
"As playmakers, when the ball's in the air, we're doing our best and understanding and knowing that it's the situation where he's got to get healthy, but we're still out here making plays with each other, for each other, and he always gives his best.
"That's all you can ask for."
Landry has himself had issues this season, missing four games due to a knee sprain.
"I haven't been able to get the ball so much, either," he said.
"But at the end of the day I've been able to [make the most] with the opportunities I'm given.
"Yeah, I'm battling some things, but on Sundays I always give everything I have. And that will never change."
The Browns (5-5) are fourth in the AFC North and face the winless Detroit Lions on Sunday.