The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for their Week 1 showdown against the Dallas Cowboys by activating several key players who have recently passed their physical examinations. The team's preparation has seen the likes of Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson ready to hit the field once more.
Key Players Returning
Jedrick Wills Jr., a crucial part of the Browns' offensive line, is back in action after undergoing knee surgery. His absence was felt keenly last season when he missed the final nine games of the regular season and the playoff loss to Houston. In his stead, players like Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson have been filling the gap at left tackle. Wills’ return is expected to bolster the Browns' offensive front significantly.
Jack Conklin also makes his comeback after a challenging period marked by injuries. The offensive tackle suffered a season-ending knee injury last year against the Cincinnati Bengals and has missed 29 regular season games over the past three years. This will be Conklin's first practice with the team this summer, marking a significant milestone in his recovery. Before Conklin's return, Dawand Jones had temporarily stepped in before he, too, suffered a season-ending injury.
Defensive Additions and Challenges
On the defensive side, Greg Newsome II and D'Anthony Bell are set to rejoin the squad. Newsome missed three regular season games last year due to a hamstring injury. Meanwhile, Bell, who had two interceptions last season, will also add depth to the defense. The Browns' defensive unit will be further strengthened by the addition of Dalvin Tomlinson, who was signed from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency period.
However, the defense still faces some hurdles. Denzel Ward remains in the concussion protocol, and rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is expected to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List. These absences will test the depth and resilience of the Browns' defense in the early weeks of the season.
Running Back Woes
The Browns’ offense will have to cope without the services of star running back Nick Chubb, who is on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List. Chubb will be sidelined for the first four weeks of the regular season, which leaves a significant void in the Browns' ground game.
Roster Adjustments
The Cleveland Browns are in the midst of finalizing their active roster, which must be trimmed to 53 players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. The team has already announced their first series of roster cuts, bringing the count down to 76 players. These final decisions will shape the team's strategy and depth as they navigate the initial weeks of the NFL season.
As the Browns finalize their preparations, the returns of key players like Wills, Conklin, Bell, and Newsome provide a much-needed boost. While challenges remain, notably with Chubb and Ward sidelined, the team's offseason moves and signings showcase a commitment to strengthening their squad. With their Week 1 game against the Dallas Cowboys on the horizon, the Browns are poised to tackle the upcoming season with renewed determination and a bolstered roster.