Browns Activate Key Players Ahead of Week 1 Showdown with Cowboys
The Cleveland Browns have made significant strides to bolster their roster as they prepare for their Week 1 clash against the Dallas Cowboys. Several key players, including Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson, have passed their physical examinations, providing a much-needed boost to the team.
Jack Conklin's return is particularly noteworthy. The talented offensive tackle has endured a challenging period, suffering a season-ending knee injury last year in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. This injury marked yet another setback in Conklin's career, as he has missed 29 regular-season games over the past three seasons. His activation ahead of the new season is a critical development for the Browns.
Conklin's activation comes with a significant highlight: he will join practice with the team for the first time this summer. This reintegration is expected to strengthen the offensive line, which faced considerable challenges in Conklin's absence. Dawand Jones initially stepped in for Conklin but also succumbed to a season-ending injury, leaving the Browns scrambling for solutions.
Jedrick Wills Jr. is another key player returning to the Browns' lineup. Wills underwent knee surgery and missed the final nine games of the regular season, as well as the playoff loss to Houston. In his absence, Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson have been sharing left tackle duties. With Wills back in action, the Browns can expect a more stable and experienced presence on their offensive line.
Meanwhile, Greg Newsome II, who missed three regular season games last year due to a hamstring injury, is also back on track. Newsome's return is a welcome addition to the Browns' secondary, especially with Denzel Ward still navigating the concussion protocol. Newsome's presence could be vital in fortifying the Browns' defense as they face a potent Cowboys' offense.
The Browns have further bolstered their defensive line by signing Dalvin Tomlinson from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency. Tomlinson, known for his formidable presence, is expected to enhance the Browns' defensive capabilities, especially against the run game. Additionally, D'Anthony Bell, who recorded two interceptions last season, has been activated, adding depth to the secondary.
However, not all news is positive for the Browns. Star running back Nick Chubb remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List and will be sidelined for at least the first four weeks of the regular season. Chubb's absence will undoubtedly impact the Browns' ground game, and the team will need to rely on their depth at running back to compensate for this significant loss.
Furthermore, rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is expected to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List. This move necessitates adjustments in the defensive lineup as the Browns navigate early-season challenges. Hall's anticipated absence underscores the importance of the depth and versatility that Dalvin Tomlinson brings to the defensive unit.
As part of their roster management, the Browns have announced their first series of cuts, trimming the roster down to 76 players. With the deadline looming to finalize their 53-man roster by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, the coaching staff faces critical decisions. These cuts are essential to refine the team structure and ensure a balanced, capable roster heading into the regular season.
The Browns' active roster and practice sessions in the coming days will be crucial in setting the tone for their season opener against the Cowboys. With the return of several key players and the reinforcement of their defensive and offensive lines, the Browns aim to kick off their campaign on a strong note, hoping to overcome the hurdles that have plagued recent seasons.