The Cleveland Browns made significant strides in solidifying their roster ahead of their crucial Week 1 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. In a positive turn of events, several key players who had previously been sidelined due to injuries have successfully cleared their physical examinations and are set to make their return to the field.
Key Players Activated
Among those activated are Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson. Their return is a much-needed boost for the Browns as they look to start the season on a strong note. Wills and Conklin, in particular, are vital components of the Browns’ offensive line and their presence will be crucial in protecting quarterback Deshaun Watson.
Jack Conklin's return marks a significant milestone after a challenging period. Conklin had suffered a devastating knee injury last season during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals, which prematurely ended his season. Injury woes have plagued Conklin over the past years, causing him to miss 29 regular season games over the last three seasons. His return to practice this summer is a positive sign for the Browns' offensive line stability.
Meanwhile, Dawand Jones, who had temporarily filled in for Conklin, also suffered a season-ending injury, adding to the Browns' challenges on the offensive front. With Conklin’s return, the Browns can regain some much-needed depth and experience.
Jedrick Wills Jr. is another lineman coming back from injury. Wills underwent knee surgery last season, forcing him to miss the final nine games of the regular season and the playoff loss to Houston. In his absence, players like Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson stepped up to fill the void at left tackle. However, Wills' return will undoubtedly strengthen the Browns' offensive line as they aim to hit the ground running against the Cowboys.
Secondary and Defensive Line Updates
On the defensive end, cornerback Greg Newsome II is back in action after dealing with a hamstring injury that sidelined him for three regular season games last year. His presence in the secondary will be essential, especially with Denzel Ward still in the concussion protocol. Newsome’s return adds depth and versatility to the Browns' defensive backfield.
Safety D'Anthony Bell, who recorded two interceptions last season, has also been activated. His defensive playmaking ability will be pivotal for a Browns team looking to create turnovers and stymie the Cowboys' offensive threats.
Newly signed defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson, acquired from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency, brings a fresh dynamic to the Browns' defensive line. His addition is expected to bolster the Browns’ run defense and provide an inside pass rush presence.
Roster Movements and Expectations
While several key players are returning, the Browns are still dealing with notable absences. 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. This impacts the Browns' ground game significantly, as Chubb is a key offensive weapon.
Additionally, rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is anticipated to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List, further affecting the team’s depth chart.
As of Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, the Browns must trim their active roster to 53 players. They have already begun this process, announcing their first series of roster cuts which brought the roster down to 76 players. This next phase will be crucial in determining the final composition of the team heading into the regular season.
The activation of these key players ahead of the game against the Cowboys instills a sense of optimism among Browns fans. The team is banking on their return to form to make a concerted push in the highly competitive AFC North. With the added experience and skill of Wills, Conklin, Newsome, Bell, and Tomlinson, the Browns are better positioned to compete at a high level and potentially secure a victory in their season opener.