The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for their Week 1 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys with a significant boost to their roster. Several key players, who were previously sidelined due to injuries, have now been activated ahead of the game. This development comes as a welcome sign of relief for the Browns as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Key Players Return
Among the notable names returning to the field are Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson. These players have successfully passed their physical examinations, ensuring their readiness for the season opener.
Jack Conklin, whose presence on the field has been sorely missed, is set to rejoin practice for the first time this summer. Conklin suffered a season-ending knee injury last year during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Over the past three seasons, Conklin has been plagued by injuries, missing a total of 29 regular season games. His return is expected to bolster the Browns' offensive line significantly.
Jedrick Wills Jr., another critical component of the Browns' offensive line, also makes his return following knee surgery. Wills missed the final nine games of the regular season and the playoff loss to Houston. During his absence, Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson have been filling in at left tackle. With Wills back in action, the Browns hope to strengthen their offensive front.
Defensive Additions and Concerns
On the defensive side, Greg Newsome II resumes his duties after missing three regular season games last year due to a hamstring injury. However, the Browns' secondary still faces challenges, as Denzel Ward remains in the concussion protocol. Defensive flexibility will be crucial for the Browns as they navigate these early-season hurdles.
Dalvin Tomlinson, signed from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency, is another vital addition to the defensive lineup. His experience and skill set are expected to provide a solid foundation for the Browns' defense.
D'Anthony Bell, who had two interceptions last season, also returns to the fold. His playmaking ability in the secondary will be crucial in bolstering the Browns' defensive efforts.
Injury List and Roster Moves
Despite these encouraging returns, the Browns are not without their setbacks. 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 leaves a significant gap in the Browns' offensive arsenal.
Additionally, rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is expected to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List, further impacting the team's depth on the defensive line.
As the Browns make these adjustments, they must also trim their active roster. The league mandate requires teams to reduce their rosters to 53 players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. The Browns have already announced their first series of roster cuts, bringing the team down to 76 players. These decisions are crucial as they finalize the roster ahead of the regular season.
With these developments, the Cleveland Browns aim to start their season on a strong note. The return of key players, coupled with strategic roster adjustments, positions them well for their Week 1 clash against the Dallas Cowboys. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Browns navigate the early challenges and set the stage for a competitive season.