The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for their Week 1 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys with several key activations and roster adjustments. Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson have all passed their physical examinations, marking a significant boost for the team’s lineup.
Injuries and Returns
Jack Conklin's return to practice is particularly notable. The talented 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 seasons. This summer will be his first back on the practice field, signaling a hopeful return to form. The Browns are surely looking forward to Conklin solidifying their offensive line.
Dawand Jones temporarily took Conklin’s spot last season but unfortunately also faced a season-ending injury, leading to a rather tumultuous period for the team's offensive line. Now, with Conklin’s return, stability may finally be on the horizon.
Jedrick Wills Jr. also makes his return after undergoing knee surgery. Wills missed the final nine games of the previous season, including a tough playoff loss to Houston. During his absence, Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson have stepped up at left tackle. Wills' recovery and return to the field are poised to solidify the critical position.
Defensive Strength
On the defensive side, the Browns are reinforced by the return of Greg Newsome II, who missed three regular-season games last year due to a hamstring injury. His presence in the secondary will be crucial, especially with Denzel Ward still in the concussion protocol, leaving a considerable gap in the defensive lineup.
Another significant addition to the defense is Dalvin Tomlinson, a standout who signed with the Browns from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency. Tomlinson’s experience and capabilities are expected to enhance the team's defensive front substantially.
Active Roster and Cuts
As the Browns make these crucial additions, the team must also focus on finalizing their 53-man active roster by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. The initial roster cuts have already trimmed the squad down to 76 players. Strategizing these last decisions will be vital in balancing depth and talent across all positions.
Unfortunately, the Browns face some challenges, with Rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. expected to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List and Nick Chubb remaining on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List. Chubb’s absence will keep him sidelined for the first four weeks of the regular season, a significant blow to the Browns’ running game.
D'Anthony Bell, another key player who passed his physical, had a notable season last year with two interceptions. His involvement will be crucial as the Browns hope to build a defensive fortress strong enough to contend in the rigorous NFL schedule.
The Cleveland Browns are carefully assembling a roster that blends returning talent and new additions, all while navigating the obligatory roster cuts and injury list challenges. The anticipation is building as the team prepares for a critical Week 1 showdown against the Cowboys, with hopes that these strategic moves will translate into on-field success.