Browns Training Camp: Week 1 Review
The Browns returned to training after a very Cleveland off-season, being constantly in the news, with Baker Mayfield leaving and Deshaun Watson replacing him as quarterback. In the first week of training only one full speed session is allowed so it's very much about getting back to practice, doing the reps and fitness drills and hoping soft tissue injuries don't occur- which of course for the Browns they did.
Kevin Stefanski was clear that both Watson and Jacoby Brissett would both be getting a ton of reps as they wait to hear the ruling from Sue Robinson. As I'm writing this article it's just been announced tat Watson has received a 6 game ban. Brissett will be the starter for the first 6 games that Watson is banned and Stefanski was forthright in his praise of their backup QB "...everybody saw a decision-maker, a big athlete, a person who could make all the throws. Then being around him, his ability to lead, ability to understand defenses, I've been impressed." Myles Garrett said "He's a very quality quarterback. I think he's talented enough to win games by himself. So I'm looking forward to seeing what he can do." A crucial point to note is that Watson's ban does not prevent him turning up to Training Camp and practicing, including during pre-season games.
Greg Newsome seems to be largely working at nickelback, which is no great surprise after Troy Hill was traded, with Greedy Williams and rookie Martin Emerson taking the most reps opposite Newsome. John Johnson III called Grant Delpit the glue of the Secondary which is exciting news. Last year the Browns were very excited about Delpit and were expecting huge things from him until he tore his achilles in Camp last year. He's now back to full fitness and is looking great. AJ Green has looked good with a tremendous interception from Brissett. The Defense is holding a Training Camp contest called "Alpha Dogs" with various categories designed to make practice more competitive. Prizes will go the champs at the end of Training Camp. There's a huge focus on forced turnovers this year as the Browns have ranked 18th in the last two years which DC Woods isn't happy with. DT Jordan Elliott has increased his weight to 320lbs, but has been playing like he's 280lbs which is good news as the DT Room is a weakness of the Browns.
On Offense Watson has been throwing consistently to Cooper, DPJ, Woods II, Grant, Njoku and Bryant. Donovan Peoples-Jones has been looking very sharp in Camp and the Browns desperately need him to step up to WR2 status. Bryant has also been excellent in Camp and Jakeem Grant has largely been working down the middle of the field. Kevin Stefanski on Amari Cooper "He's as smart a player as I've ever been around...he's a pro's pro all the way." There is a lot riding on Amari Cooper this season and his connection with Deshaun Watson will go a long way in determining how successful the Browns season will be.
Injuries have occurred with Denzel Ward, David Bell, Jack Conklin, Anthony Schwartz and Anthony Walker placed on the PUP list. This leaves the Browns already dangerously short of Wide Receivers as Isaiah Weston has an expected ACL injury leaving Amari Cooper, Donovan Peoples-Jones, Jakeem Grant, Michael Wood II and Demetric Felton as the main receivers left standing at this point. It's already thought that the Browns will be looking to bring in another WR veteran. The WR Room and the DT Room could both possibly receive attention before the season starts.