The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for their Week 1 clash against the Dallas Cowboys with significant roster adjustments. Several key players have been reactivated, adding a substantial boost to the team. Among those making a return are Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson, who passed their physical examinations to the delight of Browns fans.
Jack Conklin's Return
One of the most notable returns is that of Jack Conklin. Conklin suffered a devastating, season-ending knee injury last year during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. This injury added to a growing tally of missed games, bringing his total to 29 absences over the past three seasons. His return to practice is a promising sign for the Browns, as they look to add stability to their offensive line. Conklin’s return is critical, given his experience and skillset, which have been sorely missed.
Dawand Jones had temporarily filled in for Conklin before himself suffering a season-ending injury. The domino effect of injuries on the Browns’ offensive line has been evident, and Conklin’s return marks a turning point as the team seeks consistency and strength in that area.
Challenges and New Faces at Left Tackle
Jedrick Wills Jr. is another player making a return after significant time away from the field. Wills underwent knee surgery, causing him to miss the final nine games of the regular season and the playoff loss to Houston. In his absence, Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson have been tasked with holding down the fort at left tackle. Wills' return should shore up the left side of the line, providing additional protection and stability for the team’s offensive play.
Defensive Reinforcements
The defense also sees the return of key players. Greg Newsome II, who missed three regular season games last year due to a hamstring injury, is back and ready to contribute. The Browns' secondary will benefit from his presence, especially as Denzel Ward remains in the concussion protocol, adding a layer of unpredictability to the team's defensive plans.
D'Anthony Bell is another important name back in action. With two interceptions last season, Bell has proven his capability on the field, offering valuable depth to the Browns’ defensive lineup. His return could be pivotal as the team looks to tighten its grip on the defensive end.
New Additions and Absences
Dalvin Tomlinson, signed from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency, has been activated and is now part of the Browns' defensive squad. Tomlinson's presence adds a new dynamic to the Browns' defensive line, bringing experience and prowess from his tenure with the Vikings. The team will be looking to him to make an immediate impact.
However, not all news is positive for the Browns. Star running back Nick Chubb remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List and is expected to be sidelined for the first four weeks of the regular season. Chubb’s absence will be sorely felt, given his explosive ability to change the dynamics of a game with his runs. During this period, the Browns will need to rely on their depth to weather his absence.
Additionally, rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is anticipated to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List, adding to the Browns’ roster challenges ahead of the season's outset.
Roster Adjustments
As the Browns navigate these changes, they face the task of trimming their active roster to 53 players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. The team has already announced its first series of roster cuts, reducing their lineup to 76 players. These decisions are crucial as the Browns look to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level throughout the season.
The return of these key players brings a mix of optimism and caution to the Browns’ camp. While the road to full strength is still laden with challenges, the activation of crucial players represents a significant step forward. The Browns' coaching staff will be working diligently to integrate these players back into the lineup, ensuring they are ready to make an impact as the season unfolds.