The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for their Week 1 clash against the Dallas Cowboys, and they have activated several key players, bringing a renewed sense of optimism to the team.
Notably, Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson all passed their physical examinations, marking significant steps in their respective recoveries and readiness for the new season.
Conklin's Comeback
Jack Conklin, who sustained a season-ending knee injury against the Cincinnati Bengals last year, is ready to return to practice for the first time this summer. Conklin's absence has been felt deeply over the past three seasons, where he missed a total of 29 regular-season games. However, his return is a promising development for a Browns offensive line that struggled in his absence.
During Conklin's recovery, Dawand Jones initially stepped in but also suffered a season-ending injury, adding to the team's challenges. With Conklin back, the Browns hope to restore stability and strength to their offensive line.
Wills and the Left Tackle Position
Jedrick Wills Jr., another pillar of the Browns' offensive line, also makes his return after undergoing knee surgery. Wills missed the final nine games of the regular season and the subsequent playoff loss to Houston. In his absence, Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson alternated at left tackle, doing their best to fill the void.
Wills' recovery and activation are crucial for the Browns as they look to solidify their offensive front, aiming to provide better protection for their quarterback and more opportunities for their running game.
Newsome and Bell Fortify the Defense
On the defensive side, Greg Newsome II is back after missing three regular season games last year due to a hamstring injury. His return boosts a secondary that has shown potential but struggled with consistency. The young cornerback's agility and skill will be vital as the Browns face some high-powered offenses this season.
D'Anthony Bell, who had two interceptions last season, also passed his physical examination. Bell's presence in the secondary adds depth and playmaking ability, enhancing the Browns' defensive options.
Dalvin Tomlinson’s Arrival
The Browns' defense is further bolstered by the addition of Dalvin Tomlinson, signed from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency. Tomlinson's experience and prowess as a defensive tackle are expected to reinforce the Browns' run-stopping capabilities and add pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Challenges and Adjustments
Despite these positive developments, the Browns still have some concerns. 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. This absence will test the Browns' depth in the backfield and their ability to adapt their offensive strategy accordingly.
Additionally, rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is expected to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List. The Browns will need to make adjustments to compensate for his unavailability, adding another layer of complexity to their roster management.
Roster Decisions Loom
In a critical phase of pre-season preparation, the Browns must trim their active roster to 53 players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. The team has already begun this process, announcing their first series of roster cuts, reducing their roster down to 76 players. These decisions are always tough, as the coaching staff evaluates performance and potential to shape the final lineup.
The activations of Wills, Conklin, Bell, Newsome, and Tomlinson mark significant strides for the Browns as they navigate the challenges of finalizing their roster and preparing for a competitive season. The weeks ahead will be crucial as the team aims to maximize its strengths and address its remaining weaknesses, hoping to make a strong start against the Cowboys.