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One of the best and most comprehensive features we offer every year is our Footballguys Preseason Updates. Every week this month, Bob Henry, Jason Wood, Clayton Gray, and their team of Footballguys Staffers cover every player that matters from every NFL team. It's 32-plus pages of some of the most comprehensive coverage you'll find. It's probably worth the Footballguys Premium Subscription by itself.
Updates from Week 4
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
It's been an up-and-down camp for Deshaun Watson, who is returning from shoulder surgery. His accuracy on short routes has been impressive, but his deep throws have been limited as he rehabs his shoulder. Initially expected to start against the Seahawks, Watson experienced soreness in his shoulder towards the end of the week, leading Jameis Winston to step in. "I decided to hold back a little bit with him, but not overly concerned," head coach Kevin Stefanski said of Watson. "He could have gone. He's feeling fine." The coaches noted nothing abnormal about the soreness and no concern over Watson's Week 1 status. Winston has been a favorite at camp and had a solid showing against Seattle, completing six passes for 63 yards.
Dorian Thompson-Robinson has proven to be a worthy candidate in the battle for the third, and likely final, quarterback spot. He looks much improved and likely to beat out Tyler Huntley. He took over for Winston and threw for 115 yards and a touchdown. However, rumors of other teams' interest in Thompson-Robinson have surfaced, and the Browns are listening. Huntley has improved throughout camp, making the trade rumors justifiable.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Injuries have been the story this summer. Nick Chubb has been limited to individual drills in camp and will start the season on the PUP list. Jerome Ford has had a quiet camp, but that could be due to the team protecting him, as he’ll start in Chubb's absence. In the preseason finale, Ford rushed three times for 11 yards with the starters. D'Onta Foreman has come on strong after missing time with a neck injury. He will complement Ford. Nyheim Hines, who signed with the team early in the offseason, is still sidelined from his ACL injury, with no clear timetable for his return. Additionally, Pierre Strong had a scare with a rib injury this week but is expected to recover. The team may need to consider retaining five running backs due to the injury situation.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
Amari Cooper returned to the field this week after missing some time over the last two weeks. Cooper started camp hot but seemed to cool down after trade rumors surfaced between the Browns and 49ers. Jerry Jeudy, who struggled to stay on the field after an injury early in camp, has been on the field more consistently lately, improving almost daily. He is likely the team's best deep-ball threat. The few times Deshaun Watson has thrown deep, the targets have gone to Jeudy or Elijah Moore. Moore recently returned from a concussion and has been playing well. Moore’s role as the No. 3 appears secure.
Unfortunately, David Bell has not returned to practice after getting hurt in the first preseason game. With other receivers on the roster playing well, he might be in a fight for a roster spot. One of those receivers is Jamari Thrash. His four-catch, 73-yard performance this week all but guarantees a roster spot. On the other hand, Michael Woods also had a tremendous third preseason game, scoring two touchdowns, but he seems unlikely to make the final roster with Thrash and Cedric Tillman ahead of him.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
David Njoku started camp strong and was the standout offensive player on the team. Concerns about his chemistry with Watson have been put to rest as the two appear to be clicking. Njoku could lead the team in targets and build on his strong finish to the 2023 season. Meanwhile, Jordan Akins, the primary backup, was a non-factor early in the summer but is starting to emerge as a big-body target for Watson in short-yardage situations. He also added two catches in this week’s game. Zaire Mitchell looks like he may secure the No. 3 spot, showing promise early in camp with a play style reminiscent of Njoku's, despite being raw. However, his progress slowed down over the last two weeks, and he had some drops against Seattle and only one reception. It's also possible that the Browns may opt to go with just two tight ends and allocate the spot for depth elsewhere.
Preseason Updates: Kickers
Dustin Hopkins made a 37-yard field goal to reassure anyone worried about his Week 1 status. Earlier in the week, the team traded Cade York to Washington for a conditional seventh-round pick. The Browns then signed Lucas Havrisik, who spent time on their practice squad last year and likely will again as an insurance policy for Hopkins’ injury issues.
Preseason Updates: Defense
To no one's surprise, Myles Garrett looks excellent. He continues to dominate in camp and could have another great year after finishing as the Defensive MVP last year. Za'Darius Smith's return to practice after a knee bruise last week made an immediate impact, particularly in pressuring the quarterback. Garrett and Smith give the Browns a fantastic one-two punch in the pass rush. However, the linebacking corps and secondary have battled injuries throughout camp, raising concerns about depth. If the team can't get healthy, their pass rush will be relied upon to compensate for any deficiencies. Denzel Ward took a concussion early in the week, keeping him out of the game while he worked through the protocol. Still, he is expected to be ready for Week 1, though concussions are unpredictable. Ward and Martin Emerson form a formidable cornerback duo for the team. Emerson's strong performance stands out; he was one of the few players who participated daily throughout camp.
Preseason Updates: Returners
Nyheim Hines still hasn’t practiced as he works his way back from an ACL tear, but he’s expected to return to action this week, which would bode well for his chances of returning kicks in 2024.
Updates from Week 3
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
The Browns announced early in the week that Deshaun Watson and the other starters would not be playing against the Vikings. However, Watson will play in the third and final game against Seattle. He has been cleared for full contact and participated in joint practices against the Vikings. Coach Kevin Stefanski stated that it was crucial for Watson to practice against the Vikings' starting defense. Still rehabbing his shoulder, Watson's arm strength has improved, and he has been distributing the ball to multiple receivers during practice. However, he is mainly throwing short passes, and his deep balls are often off-target. Watson and backup Jameis Winston encountered some difficulties with the Vikings' ability to disguise coverages, resulting in several bad reps during the practices. Dorian Thompson-Robinson started the preseason game and played the first half but had a mediocre performance, going 13 of 17 for 126 yards and an interception. Tyler Huntley played the second half and put up similar numbers but threw two interceptions. The two are likely competing for one roster spot as the team's third quarterback.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Nick Chubb and Nyheim Hines have yet to return to practice, which was expected with their current rehab plans. However, D'Onta Foreman has made a full recovery from his head/neck injury and has been participating in both full-team and individual drills. As a result, the team decided to release John Kelly when Foreman was cleared to play. Stefanski spoke highly of Foreman’s play style: "He runs tough. We like how he operates in this offense, so he's given us some really good reps." Interestingly, the Browns listed Foreman as the fourth running back on the team's unofficial depth chart. The current starter, Jerome Ford, was held out of the game against Minnesota with the rest of the first team. Pierre Strong started the game but only played two series, rushing for two yards. Foreman led the team in carries but managed just 18 yards, though he did score a touchdown.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
Amari Cooper had to limp off the field during the final practice with Minnesota. However, Coach Stefanski reassured everyone that Cooper would be fine, saying he was just a bit sore. On the positive side, Jerry Jeudy returned to practice, showing elite-level route running and excellent speed, catching a touchdown from Watson against the Vikings' starters. Their chemistry is building impressively, with Watson's best days throwing the ball coinciding with Jeudy's practice days. Additionally, Elijah Moore has been stacking good days after missing time last week with a concussion. However, David Bell will likely miss the rest of the preseason due to a quad injury sustained against the Packers. Stefanski spoke highly of Bell’s ability to return, which seems promising for his roster aspirations. With the starters sitting out the game against the Vikings, it was a crucial contest for the receivers fighting for final roster spots. Jamari Thrash caught three passes for the second week in a row, gaining 26 yards against Minnesota.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
While Deshaun Watson's performance at camp has been up and down, he usually gets going when targeting David Njoku. The starting tight end has been the standout offensive player of the preseason. Njoku's ability to run after the catch has been on full display, positioning him as a focal point of this offense. However, he missed most of the final practice due to an undisclosed injury. Jordan Akins, slated to be the primary backup at tight end, has had a relatively quiet camp and caught two balls for 15 yards against Minnesota. Zaire Mitchell, who is fighting for a roster spot, has made an impact recently and led the team in receiving against the Vikings with four catches for 59 yards, further intensifying his push for a place on the final roster.
Preseason Updates: Kickers
Dustin Hopkins didn’t play in the second preseason game due to an undisclosed minor injury. He is expected to be ready for Week 1, but if he’s not, the team has 2022 fourth-round pick Cade York. York made a 33-yard field goal and an extra point attempt in the loss to the Vikings, and has been a “changed man” in his second go-round with the team.
Preseason Updates: Defense
Myles Garrett's exceptional play and work ethic have impressed his teammates and opponents alike. Although hitting wasn't allowed in practice, Garrett would have sacked Sam Darnold at least three times on the final day of joint practices. The return of defensive tackle Shelby Harris to practice was crucial, particularly with Mike Hall dealing with an injury and off-field legal issues. In the secondary, players like cornerback Martin Emerson Jr., safety Grant Delpit, safety Juan Thornhill, and cornerback Denzel Ward have consistently made great plays throughout camp. While top corners Denzel Ward and Greg Newsome missed some time due to injuries, Martin Emerson seized the opportunity for one-on-one time against Justin Jefferson, leaving Jefferson impressed with his abilities. Jefferson kept the corners busy this week, but Delpit played well, breaking up multiple attempts directed at the top receiver. With other corners missing time, rookie Myles Harden has stood out in camp, especially in recent practices with the Vikings. He is fighting for the fourth corner spot despite being a seventh-round pick. Unfortunately, the linebackers have been plagued by injuries through the preseason, with Jordan Hicks and Tony Fields slated to miss another couple of weeks. However, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, who received a contract extension this week, is ready to lead the linebacker corps.
Preseason Updates: Offensive Lines
The Browns rank 6th overall. Left guard Joel Bitonio (6x Pro Bowl) and right guard Wyatt Teller are the premium talents, with right tackle Dawand Jones emerging. Left tackle Jedrick Wills is still unavailable (knee), and James Hudson has been inadequate. If Wills remains hurt, Germain Ifedi is another option. Right tackle Jack Conklin proclaimed himself healthy on social media, but it's unclear where he fits. Center Ethan Pocic remains a good starter, but Luke Wypler broke his ankle, and they traded for Nick Harris (Seattle). With legendary line coach Bill Callahan departing (Tennessee), this group could be in for a correction.
Updates from Week 2
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Deshaun Watson is embracing his leadership role, even coaching the offense on days when he is not throwing. Offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey is focused on helping Watson try new things in practice to become more comfortable with the offense before the season starts. Jerry Jeudy, who has had a few starting QBs in his career, is impressed with Watson's accuracy. While rehabbing his shoulder, Watson has been limited in his downfield passes. He has made at least one poor decision each day, resulting in at least one interception. Despite this, head coach Kevin Stefanski is not concerned about Watson's progress, saying, “You see him making all the throws necessary that we need to make within the system. The more he practices and the more he sees those live reps in practice, the more comfortable he’s going to get.” Stefanski announced early in the week that his starting quarterback would not play against Green Bay on Saturday.
Meanwhile, backup Jameis Winston, who started the preseason opener but played limited snaps, is lending his support to Watson and has been popular among teammates and coaches. Winston has looked sharp, whether playing with the starters or the backups. He completed four passes for 30 yards against the Packers. The competition for the third QB spot is heating up between Tyler Huntley and Dorian Thompson-Robinson. Thompson-Robinson outperformed Huntley in the first game, going 14-of-18 for 134 yards and continuing to build on his preseason hype from a year ago.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
The Browns have a history of keeping 3-5 running backs on the roster after camp under Stefanski. Given the season's injuries, they will likely keep five or more this year. Nick Chubb, Jerome Ford, D'Onta Foreman, and Nyheim Hines seem to have secure spots, while Pierre Strong and John Kelly compete for positions. Ford was the only one of the top four to play this week, registering two carries for four yards. Strong and Kelly's ability to contribute on special teams and in the return game will be crucial for one or both to make the final roster. Both backs rushed for 15 yards in the opener, and Strong added a 27-yard kick return. Despite suffering a neck injury last week, D'Onta Foreman is already back at practice but did not play in the game. With Chubb, Foreman, and Hines missing time, rookie running back Aidan Robbins could take on a heavier workload during the preseason as he fights to secure a spot on the team. Robbins, a big back at 6-foot-2 and 237 pounds, scored the only touchdown against Green Bay but finished with just six yards on five carries.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
The biggest news at wide receiver this week was a failed attempt to trade for Brandon Aiyuk. A deal that would have sent Amari Cooper to San Francisco was reportedly in place, but Aiyuk ultimately vetoed it. It was a quiet week for Cooper, possibly due to the team ensuring his health in case the trade went through. Meanwhile, Jerry Jeudy has been in and out of practice due to a minor leg injury. Jeudy mentioned that staying engaged with the offense through mental reps while he was out helped him stay connected. Despite only participating in a few full practices, Jeudy’s speed has stood out, leading to increased targets from Watson. While David Njoku has led the team in targets, there could be exciting chemistry between Jeudy and Watson once Jeudy is 100% healthy.
Elijah Moore returned after a concussion last week but didn't do much this week. As Jeudy and Moore recover, Cedric Tillman is pushing for a shot at the 3rd wide receiver spot. Tillman credits Jeudy and Cooper for their valuable advice during team meetings. He has been building chemistry with both Watson and Winston, catching deep touchdowns from both quarterbacks over the last two weeks. David Bell, who is on the bubble, left the game after one catch against Green Bay with a quad injury. Meanwhile, fifth-round pick Jamari Thrash led the team in receiving with 43 yards as he fights for one of the final roster spots at receiver.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
There has been little news regarding tight ends this week. Even though David Njoku didn't play against the Packers, he has proven to be the best offensive player in camp. Jordan Akins started the game and caught two passes for 25 yards. With only Njoku and Akins having NFL experience, the team has an opening for a young player to secure the third tight end spot. In the first preseason game, Zaire Mitchell-Paden displayed glimpses of Njoku's receiving abilities, catching three passes for 20 yards. Given his performance and two years on the practice squad, he could potentially earn a spot on the roster.
Preseason Updates: Defense
Injuries have taken a toll on the defensive line and linebacker corps, potentially necessitating new additions to ensure healthy bodies are available. Linebacker Za'Darius Smith had to leave practice after colliding knees with Jerome Ford. Coach Stefanski commented on Smith’s injury, saying, "No update, I think he'll be okay. He banged knees there with Jerome Ford. Kind of a weird injury, but ultimately, he'll be okay, but pretty sore."
On a positive note, Myles Garrett returned to practice this week and has already been impressing at camp—so much so that the coaches have had to limit his reps to allow the offense to get some plays in. Unsurprisingly, the pass rush has had a standout week with Garrett back. Additionally, with most starting linebackers missing time in camp, Devin Bush has capitalized on his opportunity by excelling at stopping the run and showcasing his abilities against the Packers. Martin Emerson has stood out at cornerback during camp, benefiting from close offseason work with teammate and number-one corner Denzel Ward.
Preseason Updates: Returners
Nyheim Hines was signed to handle returns but is currently on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list as he recovers from an ACL tear. In his absence, Pierre Strong, Jaelon Darden, and James Proche have been the top options.
Updates from Week 1
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's What You Need To Know From Every Team This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
As the Browns open training camp, Deshaun Watson, recovering from shoulder surgery, has been cleared to throw. Coach Kevin Stefanski has not committed to Watson playing in any preseason games. This week, Watson threw consecutive touchdowns to Amari Cooper, Cedric Tillman, David Njoku, and Elijah Moore. Although Watson did not throw during the final practice, he participated in mental reps behind the other quarterbacks, which Stefanski said is part of his recovery protocol. Stefanski noted that Watson looked sharp when throwing and remained heavily involved in practice. Jameis Winston is running the second-team offense but played with the first team on the final day of practice, leading a two-minute drill that ended with a touchdown to David Bell. Dorian Thompson-Robinson, cleared to practice after a hip injury, is competing with Tyler Huntley for the third quarterback role and a roster spot.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Injuries and absences among the running backs have marked the early parts of camp. Nick Chubb is still recovering from his second knee surgery following his Week 2 injury last season. Despite this, Zac Jackson of The Athletic reports Chubb was seen running near full-speed sprints and performing light agility drills without a brace, indicating promising progress. Jackson described it as "keep-the-blood flowing kind of stuff." GM Andrew Berry expressed satisfaction with Chubb's recovery, noting he still has some way to go but is progressing well. Backup Jerome Ford missed a few practices due to a personal matter, while D'Onta Foreman suffered a head/neck injury in practice and was briefly hospitalized. Although Foreman returned to practice two days later, he is not yet ready to participate in drills, with Coach Kevin Stefanski emphasizing the importance of rest for his recovery. Nyheim Hines is also dealing with a knee injury and hasn't practiced since signing with the team. The Browns are closely monitoring their running backs as they navigate these challenges.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
Amari Cooper, who had previously missed minicamps while waiting on a new deal, reported on time to training camp after securing an amended contract for the season. The Browns expect Cooper and David Njoku to lead the team in targets, with the hope that Jerry Jeudy can add speed to the offense. According to head coach Kevin Stefanski, Jeudy has been working off to the side due to a leg issue but is "ramping up" and "close" to joining full practice. Jeudy participated in individual drills for the first time this past Thursday, impressing Stefanski. “I thought he looked good. He moved around well, caught it well,” Stefanski said of Jeudy. Elijah Moore might miss some time after leaving Friday's practice with a concussion. Once healthy, Moore and Cedric Tillman will compete for the third receiver role. Tillman has found success with Deshaun Watson in the absence of other receivers, showing promise during recent practices, especially on the deep ball.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
The first week of practice culminated in a highly competitive final day, where the offense and defense faced off for the first time this preseason. David Njoku emerged as the standout player, frequently targeted by quarterback Deshaun Watson. While Njoku's impressive performance last season occurred after Watson's injury, the duo has displayed a budding connection. Their chemistry will be crucial for the Browns to achieve their goals this season. Njoku hinted at a more significant role in the passing game this year, according to ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi. Meanwhile, new assistant coach and former player Mike Vrabel has been working closely with the tight ends to enhance their performance and integration into the team's offensive strategy. Coach Stefanski spoke on Njoku and Vrabel, saying, “Dave looks healthy. He's making a lot of plays for us in the passing game. As an outside linebacker, [Vrabel] had a lot of battles with tight ends and can talk to them about blocking techniques and how to release. Vrabel has a very natural way of helping tight ends because he literally went against those guys for years."
Preseason Updates: Kickers
Dustin Hopkins signed a three-year, $15.9 million extension before camp, making him one of the highest-paid kickers in the league after a season in which he went 33 for 36 on field goal attempts. 2022 fourth-round pick Cade York, whom the team released before last season (and then traded for Hopkins), was re-signed in the offseason. The team may be looking at York as a practice squad kicker because Hopkins has suffered hamstring injuries in each of the last two seasons.
Preseason Updates: Defense
Defensive MVP Myles Garrett has yet to practice but is expected to return soon. The other defensive end, Za'Darius Smith, returned to practice, participating in 11-on-11 drills by the week's end. Linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, coming off a breakout 2023 campaign, remains unconcerned about his upcoming contract extension. The team is concerned about injuries to Dalvin Tomlinson and Greg Newsome II but hopes they will return by the season's start. Shelby Harris, who would play in place of Tomlinson, has also missed time due to an undisclosed injury. With cornerbacks Newsome and Cameron Mitchell missing time, veteran addition Tony Brown II is taking first-team reps as the slot corner. Rookie Myles Harden is also getting extra opportunities. Despite these setbacks, the defense made significant plays, including interceptions by Denzel Ward and Chris Edmonds and a key pass breakup by Martin Emerson Jr. Zac Jackson suggests the internal focus remains on getting healthy, with potential veteran additions to the cornerback and linebacker groups in August.
