Yahoo Sports’ lead NFL reporter Jori Epstein is on the road covering training camp. Today’s stop: the Cleveland Browns.
About the QB
Deshaun Watson has been cleared of shoulder surgery in 2023 and is participating in all practices when not scheduled for a rest day. Head coach Kevin Stefanski told me Watson’s “variety of throws” and arm strength are strong, while his accuracy “looks exactly the same as it did before.” That will benefit the Browns’ offensive rebuild as they install a system they believe will better showcase his skills on RPOs and drop-back passes.
Rookie to keep an eye on
Cleveland didn’t pick until the second round and didn’t pick a skill player until the fourth round. Trenchmen take time to develop in the NFL, and the Browns have depth on the defensive line. Still, I expect second-round defensive tackle Mike Hall to work his way into DC Jim Schwartz’s rotation with rushing opportunities on third downs.
I keep an eye on
The health of the Browns defensive line. Several players went down during team drills during my time there, and edge rusher Za’Darius Smith was even carried off the field while grimacing and clutching his left knee. Smith should be available for the season, but how many injuries can the Browns defensive line endure before losing its explosiveness? A banged up line could ruin Cleveland’s chance of winning its division for the first time in 35 years.
Fantasy thought
Amari Cooper won’t suddenly play with the speed of Tyreek Hill or the depth of Justin Jefferson. But the 10-year veteran rushed for a career-high 1,250 yards with four quarterbacks last year and is healthier than he’s ever been in Dallas, he tells me. Cooper believes he uses his skills more than his talent to dominate and doesn’t expect a drop-off in his performance in his 30s. After watching him rush for 1,000 yards for seven seasons, why should we?
What I saw was interesting
The Browns unveiled their new weight room and practice facility on Monday, and I was impressed by the walk-in space. Two 25-yard-wide screens allow Cleveland to project game film or Madden-like opponent lineups to create opportunities for more kinesthetic learning. It’s starting to look like a little less time spent sitting down.
joker
It’s hard to say what the Browns offense will show us when head coach Kevin Stefanski and offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey call the plays. But I don’t think they’ll show us repetitive, boring plays. Players, coaches and executives alike have outlined a comprehensive playbook that includes various game plans to capitalize on plays and matchups. I expect a faster system than last year.
