The Cleveland Browns made significant strides towards strengthening their lineup ahead of their Week 1 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys by activating key players who had previously been sidelined due to injuries. Several crucial members, including Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson, successfully passed their physical examinations, signaling a positive turn for the Browns as they gear up for the regular season.
Return of Offensive Linemen
One of the most noteworthy returns is that of right tackle Jack Conklin. After suffering a season-ending knee injury against the Cincinnati Bengals last year, Conklin missed 29 regular season games over the past three seasons. His absence was keenly felt, and his return marks a significant boost for the Browns' offensive line. Conklin will join practice with the team for the first time this summer, an important step in regaining his form and chemistry with his teammates.
Stepping in for Conklin during his absence was Dawand Jones, who also succumbed to a season-ending injury, highlighting the team's struggles with maintaining a healthy line. Meanwhile, on the left side of the line, Jedrick Wills Jr. is also making his return after undergoing knee surgery. Wills missed the final nine games of the regular season and the playoff loss to Houston. In his absence, Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson have been filling in at left tackle, but Wills' return is expected to stabilize the offensive front.
Defensive Reinforcements
The Browns’ defensive unit also sees the return of key contributors. Greg Newsome II, who missed three games last season due to a hamstring injury, is back in the fold. However, it’s worth noting that another defensive star, Denzel Ward, remains in the concussion protocol, casting some doubt over his availability.
D'Anthony Bell, who had an impressive season with two interceptions last year, is also returning to the roster. His presence adds depth and playmaking ability to the Browns' secondary. Adding to the defensive boost, Dalvin Tomlinson, a significant acquisition from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency, looks to make an impact on the defensive line.
Key Absences and Roster Cuts
Despite these encouraging returns, the Browns still face challenges. Star running back Nick Chubb remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List, sidelining him for the first four weeks of the regular season. This absence will test the Browns' depth at the running back position early in the campaign.
Additionally, rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is expected to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List, potentially affecting the rotation on the defensive front. As the team adjusts to these changes, it must also face the practical reality of roster trims. The Browns have begun the process of reducing their active roster, bringing it down to 76 players with further cuts necessary to meet the 53-player limit by Tuesday, 4 p.m. ET.
This period of adjustment and transition is critical for the Browns, as they look to balance the integration of returning players with maintaining the health and readiness of their roster. With the regular season fast approaching, the moves they make now will set the tone for their campaign, starting with a challenging opener against the Cowboys.
The road to recovery and readiness for injured players is a testament to both their individual resilience and the team's dedicated medical and coaching staff. The Browns' ability to manage these variables effectively will be essential in their quest to navigate the physical demands of the season and achieve their goals on the field.