As the Cleveland Browns gear up for their Week 1 showdown against the Dallas Cowboys, the team has bolstered its lineup by activating several key players. Among those returning to action are Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson—each of whom recently passed their physical examinations. The reinforcements come at a crucial time as the Browns aim to start the season strong.
Jack Conklin, the Browns' standout offensive tackle, is making his much-anticipated return after a tumultuous period marred by injury. Conklin had suffered a season-ending knee injury last year during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals, significantly sidelining him. Over the past three seasons, Conklin has missed 29 regular season games, a streak the Browns hope will end this season. His return to practice this summer marks a significant milestone, not just for him but for the team’s offensive line stability.
However, the revolving door of injuries hasn’t just impacted Conklin. Dawand Jones, who temporarily filled in for Conklin, also faced a season-ending injury, further complicating the Browns' offensive line strategy. On the left side, Jedrick Wills Jr. had knee surgery, resulting in his absence for the final nine games of the regular season and the playoff loss against Houston. During Wills' recovery, Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson played critical roles in filling the void at left tackle.
Secondary Shuffle
The team’s secondary also experienced its share of setbacks. Greg Newsome II, a key defensive back, missed three regular season games last year due to a hamstring injury. His return adds much-needed depth to the Browns’ defensive backfield, which remains without Denzel Ward, who is still navigating the concussion protocol. D'Anthony Bell, another crucial piece in the secondary, had a productive season last year with two interceptions. His presence is a welcome sight for a unit aiming to improve upon last season’s performance.
New Faces and Rehabilitation
Among the new additions to the squad is Dalvin Tomlinson, signed from the Minnesota Vikings during the 2023 free agency period. Tomlinson’s experience and skill set are expected to enhance the Browns' defensive front, adding a layer of toughness and versatility.
Despite these positive developments, the Browns face ongoing challenges. 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 could prove significant, as Chubb’s prowess in the backfield has been a cornerstone of the Browns' offensive strategy. Meanwhile, rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is anticipated to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List, further testing the team’s depth.
Roster Moves
With the regular season looming, the Browns must finalize their active roster, trimming it to 53 players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. The team has started this grueling process, already reducing their roster to 76 players. This period is critical for fringe players who aim to impress the coaching staff and earn their spots on the final roster.
The collective return and integration of these key players provide a blend of relief and optimism for the Browns coaching staff and fan base. As each athlete re-joins the team, they carry both the weight of past injuries and the hope of a fresh start, underscoring the unpredictable yet exhilarating nature of professional football.