The Cleveland Browns have made significant strides as they prepare for their Week 1 game against the Dallas Cowboys. Several key players have been activated and passed their physical examinations, signaling a stronger lineup for the Browns.
Among those who cleared their physicals are Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson. This development comes at a critical juncture as the team tackles their first game of the season.
Jack Conklin's Return
Jack Conklin's return to the practice field is particularly noteworthy. Conklin has been plagued by injuries over the past few seasons, missing 29 regular-season games in the last three years. His most recent setback was a season-ending knee injury against the Cincinnati Bengals last year. Despite these challenges, Conklin's readiness to rejoin practice this summer offers a glimmer of hope for bolstering the Browns' offensive line.
Last season, Dawand Jones briefly filled Conklin's void before suffering his own season-ending injury. The Browns have certainly felt Conklin’s absence, and his return could provide a much-needed boost to their offensive prowess.
Jedrick Wills Jr.'s Rehabilitation
Jedrick Wills Jr., another critical component of the Browns' offensive line, also rejoins the team after recovering from knee surgery. Wills missed the final nine games of the regular season and the playoff loss to Houston due to this injury. In his absence, Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson stepped in at left tackle, doing their best to maintain stability. Wills’ return is a welcome sight for the Browns as they strive to strengthen their protection schemes.
Greg Newsome II's Comeback
On the defensive end, Greg Newsome II is set to reappear after missing three regular-season games last year because of a hamstring injury. Newsome’s ability to stay healthy is crucial for the Browns' secondary, especially with Denzel Ward still in the concussion protocol. Newsome's presence will complement a defense aiming to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
New Faces and Key Additions
Dalvin Tomlinson is another player to watch. Signed from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency, Tomlinson’s addition to the Browns is expected to fortify their defensive front. His performance will be pivotal as the team looks to enhance its run defense and pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
D'Anthony Bell, who recorded two interceptions last season, is also back. Bell’s knack for making big plays in crucial moments makes him an asset to the Browns' secondary. His readiness adds depth and reliability to a defense aiming for higher consistency.
Challenges Ahead
However, the Browns are not without their challenges. Star running back Nick Chubb remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List and will be sidelined for the first four weeks of the regular season. Chubb’s absence is a significant blow to the Browns' rushing attack, and the team will look for alternative options to fill that gap in the interim.
Additionally, rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is expected to be placed on the Commissioner’s Exempt List, and his situation adds yet another layer of complexity to the team’s defensive lineup.
Roster Adjustments
As the Browns work towards finalizing their squad, they have already announced their first series of roster cuts, bringing their roster down to 76 players. With the looming deadline to trim the active roster to 53 players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, decisions made in the coming days will be crucial. Each position, each player, will be scrutinized as the Browns aim to put their best foot forward for the 2023 season.
The upcoming game against the Dallas Cowboys will serve as a significant litmus test for the team. The activation of key players and returning athletes provides a foundation of optimism. However, the true test will lie in their execution and ability to stay healthy throughout the season. With veterans returning and fresh talent stepping up, the Browns’ journey through the season promises to be compelling.