As the Cleveland Browns gear up for their Week 1 showdown against the Dallas Cowboys, the team receives a significant boost with the return of several key players who have passed their physical examinations. Headlining this list are offensive linemen Jedrick Wills Jr. and Jack Conklin, safety D'Anthony Bell, cornerback Greg Newsome II, and newly acquired defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson.
Improving Offensive Line Stability
Jedrick Wills Jr. is returning to action after missing the last nine games of the regular season and the playoff loss to Houston due to knee surgery. His absence was keenly felt, and his return to practice signifies a strengthening of the Browns’ offensive line. In his place, Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson have been holding down the fort at left tackle. Their efforts have been commendable, but the return of Wills brings much-needed experience and skill to the line.
A key figure in the offensive line, Jack Conklin, is also making his comeback. After a season-ending knee injury against the Cincinnati Bengals last year and missing 29 regular-season games over the past three seasons, Conklin’s return is highly anticipated. This will mark his first appearance in practice this summer, and the team is optimistic about his impact on the field. Conklin’s presence is expected to provide stability and protection for the Browns’ quarterbacks and bolster their running game.
Key Players in the Defensive Backfield
Greg Newsome II, who missed three games last year due to a hamstring injury, is also back in the mix. With Denzel Ward still in the concussion protocol, Newsome’s return is critical for a secondary looking to tighten up its defense against the Cowboys’ potent passing attack. Newsome’s experience and agility will be crucial in covering the Cowboys’ dynamic receivers.
D'Anthony Bell, who recorded two interceptions last season, will also be part of the defensive lineup. His presence in the secondary is expected to enhance the Browns’ pass defense and create opportunities for turnovers, which could be pivotal in their contest against Dallas.
New Addition Strengthening the Defensive Line
Dalvin Tomlinson, signed from the Minnesota Vikings during the 2023 free agency, is set to make his debut with the Browns. His role in the defensive line will be under scrutiny as the Browns look to improve their run defense and put pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Tomlinson’s experience and skill set make him a valuable addition to the Browns’ defensive front.
Roster Updates and Challenges
Despite the influx of returning talent, the Browns face some ongoing challenges. Star running back Nick Chubb remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List and is expected to be sidelined for the first four weeks of the regular season. Chubb’s absence will be keenly felt, and the Browns will need to rely on their depth in the running back position to fill the void.
Additionally, the team is preparing to make tough decisions regarding their roster. With the requirement to trim their active roster to 53 players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, the Browns have already announced their first series of cuts, reducing the roster to 76 players. These decisions will be crucial in shaping the team’s final lineup and preparing for the rigorous NFL season ahead.
Rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is expected to be placed on the Commissioner’s Exempt List, adding to the roster complexities for the Browns. This move will potentially open up opportunities for other players to step up and make significant contributions to the team.
As the Browns finalize their preparations for the new season, the integration of these returning players and new additions will be integral to their success. The upcoming game against the Cowboys will provide a first glimpse of how these changes and returning talents impact the team's performance. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the reinforced lineup can deliver a strong start to the season.