I thought it might be nice to have articles in one place and we can discuss them:

http://www.cantonrep.com/sports/20180612...lace-joe-thomas

Fresh Brownies: ‘Freak of nature’ in first place in race to replace Joe Thomas

A dozen (mostly) quick takes from Browns mandatory minicamp, where Baker Mayfield is falling into like behind Tyrod Taylor, Matthew Dayes is trying to beat the odds, and Denzel Ward isn’t always hanging with Josh Gordon.
1, “Freak of nature” Shon Coleman is intent on fighting off a challenge from prized rookie Austin Corbett in the battle to replace left tackle Joe Thomas.
Coleman’s ascent as a left tackle at Auburn was slowed by a bout with leukemia. He was an older rookie when the Browns drafted him in the third round in 2016, and he will turn 27 in November.
Guard Kevin Zeitler said the 6-foot-7, 315-pound Coleman is doing well in his transition from 16 starts at right tackle last year to being the frontrunner at Thomas’ old spot.
“Shon is a freak of nature,” Zeitler said. “He’s so strong. He can take a man and lift him and throw him 10 yards.”
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Cleveland Browns head coach Hue Jackson watches during practice at the NFL football team’s training camp facility, Tuesday, June 12, 2018, in Berea, Ohio. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak)

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Cleveland Browns quarterback Tyrod Taylor passes during practice at the NFL football team’s training camp facility, Tuesday, June 12, 2018, in Berea, Ohio. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak)

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Cleveland Browns head coach Hue Jackson watches during practice at the NFL football team’s training camp facility, Tuesday, June 12, 2018, in Berea, Ohio. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak)

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Cleveland Browns quarterback Tyrod Taylor passes during practice at the NFL football team’s training camp facility, Tuesday, June 12, 2018, in Berea, Ohio. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak)

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Cleveland Browns head coach Hue Jackson watches during practice at the NFL football team’s training camp facility, Tuesday, June 12, 2018, in Berea, Ohio. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak)
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As a left tackle, Coleman’s main task would be to keep pass rushers from throwing Tyrod Taylor and Baker Mayfield into the hospital.
Coleman has plenty of experience at left tackle, where he was an Auburn starter in 2014 and ’15.
2, Coleman hasn’t won anything yet. Offensive line candidates are being tried at assorted positions during the three-day minicamp that opened Tuesday.
Corbett, a rookie No. 32 overall pick able to play any line position, will go to training camp as a left tackle candidate. He saw some action Tuesday at right tackle and left guard. Chris Hubbard, the ex-Steeler likely to start at right tackle when the season arrives, got some snaps at left tackle.
“It’s harder to try things like that when you get to training camp,” said head coach Hue Jackson.
Jackson continues to say “the five best players” will occupy the five starting roles on Sept. 9 against Pittburgh.
3, It seemed the Browns had a surplus of offensive linemen after they signed seventh-year pro Donald Stephenson in March. Someone will be an odd man out.
Perhaps that began to bother him.
Stephenson has been absent from OTAs and did not show up for Tuesday’s “mandatory” minicamp practice. Jackson mentioned a possible fine, but indications are he will not be part of the 2018 Browns.
Stephenson, a former Oklahoma Sooner, started 23 games for the Chiefs and Broncos across the last three seasons.
Young blockers Spencer Drango and Rod Johnson, drafted before Dorsey took over as GM, still hope to make a mark. Drango (Round 5, 2016) started nine games at left tackle last year after Thomas got hurt.

Johnson (Round 5, 2017) spent his rookie year on injured reserve. He was a two-time ACC Offensive Lineman of the Year while at Florida State.
4, Jarvis Landry can’t think of a single receiver who reminds him of Josh Gordon.
“He’s in a league of his own,” Landry said. “The way he can run routes separates him. I’ve never seen a guy his size who can get in and out of cuts like a small guy.”
5, Coaches have made sure all spring that Gordon is matched against rookie No. 4 overall pick Derek Ward during team drills.
Ward’s speed is plain to see. He seems to glide in coverage. One time Tuesday, though, Gordon beat Ward badly on a quick slant and was open by 3 yards when Tyrod Taylor delivered the ball.
6, Landry adjusted to three offensive coordinators in his four seasons with the Dolphins, Bill Lazor, Zac Taylor and Clyde Christensen.
His first impressions of Browns “OC” Todd Haley?

“Todd does a great job of getting playmakers the ball in space,” Landry said. “He’ll put in a gadget here, a gadget there. Generally, he’s going to spread the ball around.”
7, Tyrod Taylor entered spring practice ahead of Baker Mayfield, and there seems little question he will be the clear No. 1 going into training camp.
“Players follow Tyrod,” Hue Jackson said. “To a man, they look to him. He’s displaying what a pro starting quarterback should look like in practice.”
Mayfield seems to be carrying himself patiently, with a sense that his time will come.
Jackson said Mayfield is wise to absorb “how Tyrod is carrying himself every day in the building.”
8, Lazor was in his first “OC” job when Landry worked with him in 2015. Lazor got fired in November of 2015 and landed in Cincinnati as quarterbacks coach. Early last season, the Bengals fired Ken Zampese as offensive coordinator and replaced him with Lazor.
Zampese now is Cleveland’s quarterbacks coach.

9, Running back Matthew Dayes showed live legs while zig-zagging through the defense after catching a short pass from Drew Stanton Tuesday.
It is hard to see Dayes, making the team, given the presence of one back who started throughout the 49ers’ five-game win streak to end the 2017 season (Carlos Hyde), another back whom John Dorsey liked well enough to burn a No. 35 overall pick (Nick Chubb), and Duke Johnson.
10, Jackson said there will be meaty roles for Hyde, Chubb and Johnson. It’s just hard to envision what that will look like.
The team views Chubb as a starter sooner rather than later across the next four years.
Meanwhile, Hyde and Johnson are working under practically the same contract.
Hyde signed in March for three years and $15.3 million, with $8 million guaranteed. Johnson signed an extension last week, three years, $15.7 million, with $7.7 guaranteed.
Jackson was all smiles over keeping Johnson, who could have been a free agent after the season.

“We can put Duke in a lot of different places all over the field,” Jackson said. “I think he likes that.”
11, Derrick Kindred, a fourth-round pick in 2016, started 10 games at safety in 2017, but he is in a two-man race for the strong safety job in 2018, and Jabrill Peppers is likely to win the job.
“Jabrill is going to have a sensational season,” Jackson said of the 2018 first-round pick. “I really believe that. But Kindred is not just going give it away.”
12, Rookie wideout Antonio Callaway and veteran linebacker Jamie Collins, men of intrigue on offense and defense, will be taking it easy throughout the three-day minicamp. Both are expected to be fully healthy for the start of training camp.

this one had a snippet at the end but its the sane article except the end had more:
https://www.ohio.com/akron/sports/browns...eft-tackle-spot

Injury report
Cornerback Howard Wilson will miss his second consecutive NFL season before it started.
Wilson had surgery on Tuesday for a torn left patellar tendon and is expected to be sidelined the entire 2018 season, a cruel blow for the former fourth-round pick who missed last season after breaking his kneecap in rookie minicamp and undergoing surgery.
Wilson had not been practicing with the team during OTAs.
The team also said punter Britton Colquitt and rookie defensive end Chad Thomas are sidelined after undergoing surgeries, but both should be back for training camp next month.
Colquitt had surgery on his right (kicking) knee. The 33-year-old had a career-high 47.6-yard gross average last season, his second with the Browns. He also broke his own team record with a 40.6-yard net average.
Thomas, a third-round pick from Miami, had sports hernia surgery.

https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/category/teams/afc/cleveland-browns/

Donald Stephenson remains absent from Browns, who vow to fine him
Posted by Charean Williams on June 12, 2018, 5:49 PM EDT

Getty Images
Donald Stephenson is $14,070 lighter in the wallet today. That’s how much the Browns can fine the offensive lineman for missing the first day of minicamp.
According to Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Browns coach Hue Jackson confirmed the team will dock Stephenson, who will lose $84,435 for missing the entire minicamp.
Jackson said last week that he would address Stephenson’s absence from organized team activities at the appropriate time.
“That will come to a head pretty soon,” Jackson said Tuesday.
The offensive lineman signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the Browns in March and is expected to be the team’s swing tackle. But Jackson made it clear the Browns are not happy with Stephenson’s continued absence.

Whatever his problems are, he's about to get another one.

Looks like he might not be around here long.... I don't know why he won't just come in an compete, especially for a 1 year deal at 2.5 Million. Worst case is that he is cut and can go find another team.

yeah, strange situation. he probably knows he wont start or play and wants to be cut

Color him gone IMO. Is it physical? Just need to be getting work in and be present.

If it is diva stuff or just snubbing his team, that can be fixed easily. Do we get any cap relief if we cut a player ignoring a "mandate" for performance?

Good idea, good post, and my thanks! Really concerned about tackles. Had no idea this kid was as strong as this. Sounds pretty incredible and pretty encouraging if he can move well.

I hope we are physically tougher after last year. We need to beat more folks up.

I don't think there was any signing bonus or guarantees, so we won't need any relief.

I agree and I think that he probably feels like he is a longshot to make the cuts.



Add to that mix, Desmond Harrison.

His only chance, given all of the above are available, is @KR.

Also  #25 Dontrell Hilliard, the UDFA RB, who is in the mold of a poor mans Duke Johnson, might offer a better (lightning) option as for depth, being that Hyde and Chubb are our thunder.

I could see him possibly making it to our PS and free up a roster spot for another position group.

2 Minute Drill: Day 1 of Browns minicamp

Jabrill Peppers must earn the strong safety job, one no-show and other things we learned at Browns minicamp

Posted June 12, 2018 at 09:30 PM | Updated June 12, 2018 at 10:28 PM

https://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2018/06/jabrill_peppers_must_earn_the.html

1. Jabrill Peppers and Derrick Kindred are vying at SS

Peppers and incumbent strong safety Derrick Kindred alternated with the first team.

“It’s a good rotation,’’ said Jackson. “More so than anything, we have two very capable players that are playing that strong safety position. There’s competition throughout our football team and guys are going to have to earn what they get once we get to training camp. But it’s a good problem to have.

"Jabrill, I think, is going to have a sensational season. I really do. He’s working hard. He has been very vocal back there. But Derrick Kindred is not going to just give it away, so it is going to be fun to see.”

Kindred started 10 games at strong safety last year before landing on injured reserve with an injured wrist. Peppers started 13 game at free safety, but is now at his more natural spot.

2. Baker Mayfield still with the twos

As expected, Mayfield continued to work with the second-team offense behind Taylor and ahead of Drew Stanton. He’s also learning from Taylor’s work ethic.

“To see how Tyrod is every day in the building, you cannot make that happen,’’ said Jackson. “If you have guys on your team that can show a young player, especially at that position, what it takes to be a pro first — off of the field and all of the studying you have to do, and taking care of your body and to be a leader throughout, not just in the locker room but throughout the organization — I think is invaluable. I think what he is seeing is really going to help him, because he will look back on this time and really grow from it.”

Fellow first-round pick Denzel Ward continued to work with the ones.

3. Collins, Kendricks and Callaway on the bike brigade

Minicamp opened with Jamie Collins, Mychal Kendricks and Antonio Callaway on the bikes. Collins underwent surgery last year to repair a torn MCL, Kendricks underwent a minor ankle procedure in March and Callaway has a groin injury. Jackson said they’ll all likely miss the whole three-day camp.

“Those guys are not totally where I want them to be at, or where our medical staff, I should say, wants them to be,’’ he said. “There’s no rush. We’re definitely going to have them back for training camp."

Earlier in the day, the Browns announced three surgeries: Third-round defensive end Chad Thomas underwent sports hernia surgery and punter Britton Colquitt had a knee procedure. Both should be back for camp. But 2017 fourth-round cornerback Howard Wilson underwent a second surgery on his torn patellar tendon and is expected to miss his second straight season. He suffered the injury on the first day of rookie minicamp last year.

In addition, fullback Danny Vitale tweaked a leg on a catch and left the field with his thigh wrapped.

4. OL Donald Stephenson a no-show

Former Broncos offensive tackle Donald Stephenson, signed by the Browns as a free agent in March, was a no-show, and Jackson made it clear the Browns are fining him. Stephenson, 29, also missed the all of the voluntary OTAs.

“That will all come to an end here pretty soon,’’ Jackson said. “There are fines involved. There are all of those things that we will deal with. At this time, I only want to talk about the guys that are here and working and doing the things that they need to be doing right now.”

Stephenson signed a one-year deal worth $2.5 million, including $1 million guaranteed. The max fines for missing camp are as follows: 1st day -- $14,070; 2nd day -- $28,150; 3rd day -- $42,215.

5. Emmanuel Ogbah on the field, other notes

Ogbah, coming off foot surgery last season, participated in 11-on-11s in minicamp.

“He’s done good,’’ said Jackson. “My goal is to get all of our players to training camp healthy and ready to go. And then, keep building this football team.”

In other depth chart notes, Jarvis Landry and Josh Gordon have been the starters in two-receiver sets, and Landry moves inside in three wide with Corey Coleman lining up opposite Gordon on the outside. … Austin Corbett took reps at left guard and right tackle Tuesday. … Sixth-round receiver Damion Ratley caught a nice sideline pass from Taylor in 7-on-7s.

That brief snippet of video of Gordon catching the slant in stride at full speed was just kinda filthy.... if that's what we're going to get to see a lot of this year, this might be fun.

There is no way Jabrill doesn't get the start. Hes a 1st round pick, it will be his job to lose.

No really news.

Stinks, but better to be fully healed.

He will never be on a roster again after this, jmo.

Our best and most impactful player last year returns! Cant wait to see him and Myles healthy together.

Not a surprise about how Darnold is doing:

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000...erything-at-him

I find it odd they would already be talking about starting him.....especially when they know they have two starters capable of the load on the roster as well....

seems really weird to me. almost forced...

I love that they talk about how he’s so level emotionally. He’s got ice in his veins. It’s a killer instinct but silent. Love that mindset.

Who cares about Darnold, he's not on this team

Did i just see this right on NFL Network?

Jackson interview and he said he CANCELLED day 3 of the ONLY mandatory Mini?

New OC. New QB. Tons of new players. And you cancel?

Wow. SMH

You are right. He cancelled the 3rd day.

Any reason why?

Doesn'twanna risk being too sharp?

Just unbelievable. Lost his day planner?

I didn't hear Hue's reasoning. I'm assuming that they got the offense installed early and the team looked good. In my opinion an 0-16 team should take every opportunity to practice that they can.

Hue Jackson gives players early break from minicamp
Browns’ coach says tough decisions await in training camp


CATEGORIES: NFL Browns
Berea, OH (92.3 The Fan) – Summer vacation is about to start a little earlier for Browns players Thursday.

Following a productive 2 days of work, head coach Hue Jackson cancelled Thursday’s scheduled practice to wrap up the 3-day mandatory minicamp. Instead, players will go through their regularly scheduled meetings Thursday morning before being dismissed for summer break.

“I feel good about where we are,” Jackson said. “I feel good about everything that we have done up until this point. Obviously, it has nothing to do yet, but we got a start. That is all you can ask for. Our guys have done that. Now, they have got to get away from here and train like a son of a gun to get themselves ready to go when we come back for training camp to have a chance to earn a right to be on this football team.”

While it is only June and everyone in the NFL feels good about their football team, there is a noticeable difference in Berea with the Browns.

Practices are cleaner, the pace smoother and players are standing out as they make plays during team 11-on-11 work, something that had been rare the previous 2 years meaning that when cuts come during training camp, there may be some surprises.

“There are a lot of good football players out there,” Jackson said. “We are going to have some tough decisions as we go through training camp. That is a part of it. At the same time, I like the makeup of the team. There is talent at a lot of different positions. That talent has to play well every week to give us a chance to win.”

Official role – JW Johnson, the son-in-law of Browns owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam, is slated to join the team in an official capacity as executive vice president in July a source confirmed to 92.3 The Fan.

Johnson had become more involved with the team over the last 12-18 months, but he did not have an official title until now.

CBS Sports NFL insider Jason LaCanfora first reported that Johnson will assume the role, marking the second big change on the business side of the organization this year.

Brent Stehlik, who served as executive vice president, chief revenue officer for the team for 5 years, departed in February. David Jenkins was named chief operating officer in May and assumed some of Stehlik’s responsibilities. Jenkins is the longest tenured executive with the franchise as he enters his 15th year with the club.

The formal addition of Johnson, who has a background in marketing and television, including working for Dee Haslam’s RIVR Media, is another step in the Haslam’s desire to turn the franchise into the new family business.

Waiver claim – The Browns claimed linebacker Brady Sheldon off waivers from Oakland and placed defensive back Howard Wilson, who underwent knee surgery to repair a left patellar tendon tear, on injured reserve.

Injury report – Emmanuel Ogbah (foot), Mychal Kendricks (ankle), Antonio Callaway (groin), EJ Gaines (undisclosed), Jamie Collins (knee) and Duke Johnson (hamstring) worked on the side with trainers.

Jackson said that fullback Danny Vitale, who left Tuesday’s practice, did not suffer a serious injury.

https://923thefan.radio.com/articles/hue-jackson-gives-players-early-break-minicamp

So Wilson did indeed goto IR.

We saw no point in going on without Stephenson??

OK.....now I have a bit of a beef with Hue in this new season.

That was stupid. He may think so, but I have a feeling we are far from being a well oiled machine.

There is so a a way Jabril Peppers doesn't get the start, Kindred just might be the better player.

I go into a diotride on Peppers, deleted it, (non productive)
Kindred might be the better player.

I'd chose Kindred unless looking for a traditional linebacker type role.

I'd have to a agree. Real head-scratcher here. Not that resembling a "well-oiled machine" would mean anything by the time we come back, but damn, three days and you cancel the last one. Wow.

Day 2 Minicamp Highlights w/ Tyrod Taylor, Myles Garrett & More

I'm not sure I like it, either. We are 1-31, and with a new QB and many other new players.
I'm pretty sure this decision wasn't just Hue's, though.

I'd imagine this is stuff discussed with his coordinators as well. Maybe Haley and Williams told him we were good as well.


I don't think these are ding bats or anything. There must be a better reason than that.


Maybe the first two days of mini-camp practice were very hard?

I don't approve of it. New offensive coordinator in addition to the new faces and especially at QB.

But yeah, maybe they pushed em' thus far and wanted to avoid injury. I don't know.

Pretty common to cut out a day eArly for otas. This is simply installing basics of the basics. Everyone is fairly healthy so rest up, study up and come back ready to go.

I don't know how long they can practice with out pads and contact and still be very beneficial, unless they seamed to not be picking up the systems.

Also, they are doing classroom tomorrow.

I think the Patriots sent their players home two days early. If they are giving up practice time, then the practice might not be as valuable as we perceive it to be.

(The Patriots also win all the time and we won zero games last year.)

The part that confuses me is it was scheduled for three flippin' days. It's not like these guys have been bustin' tail for two weeks straight in blazing heat and "alright guys, good job, you get the last day off". Three days!

That said, whatever. I know nothing, these guys run football teams. Me? I hand out some "stripes" to guys that have earned them and give them the day off. Tells them there are rewards for hard work and lets the others know there is still work to be done. Nothing to be concerned with, just seems like there has to be a missed opportunity somewhere along the line.

I had to laugh when Hue was talking to reporters after practice about calling a "sack" on a play during the non-contact drill. He said Tyrod complained that there was no way he gets sacked on that play in a real game, at which time the defensive guys started hooting on him, disagreeing. Tyrod shot back at the defensive guys, "I've seen your tape.".

Good one, TT.

haha, that's classic .. and he's correct

Not that they care ( unfortunately ) but the PR. or Optic's of a 1-31 Team knocking off a non contact day early aren't very good ..

Football you get better at it with reps. Can't brainstorm anything to do with the day, pads or no? Enjoy.

Zero wins, new faces, = more reps, or position work or something. Just suspect decision.

BINGO...WE HAVE A WINNER!

...what are you going to win in day 3 of your mid June, 3 day mini camp?..practicing in NO PADS, no contact?

It sounds like practices #1 and #2 went well and a coach has to weigh the possible gain to be had by a 3rd day of camp vs the risk and potential negatives.

Injuries might be high on that list of negatives and I can't think of anything that would put more of a dampener on the progress that has been made than to lose a starter due injury on day 3 of this 'no pads' mini camp.

Once the pads go on and the number of days off for the entire team will likely be few.

Nothing to get your undies in a bunch over, here....

I think Taylor is going to be such a huge addition for us..probably best Qb in recent memory. He's going to allow Haley to run his offense and we aren't going to have to hold our breath every time the ball leaves his hands like last year and Kizer

Gotcha....the 1-31 team doesn't need the reps.

Who's gonna know? It's not like everything they do is on national TV.

I'm a fan , and I know !.. As others have stated , A 1-31 needs all the reps it can get .. I we going to hear that Pre season games don't mean a thing also ??

Wow. How's that for calling a unit out? I like it.

.

Whether you are 1-31 or 31-1..... one more day in June - which equates to what, maybe three hours on the field - is NOT going to make a difference.


The needed reps everyone is worried about will come in about five or six weeks when Training Camp opens.

Offensive Coordinator Todd Haley addressed the media on June 14, 2018.

j/c

This is like the years where the new starting QB didn't take a snap in the 4th pre-season game...as if they had it all under control.

It's probably much ado about nothing, but as said above, the optics coming off a 1-31 season are not good.

What was our pre-season record last year?

Pre-season games are absolutely meaningless.

QB coach Ken Zampese raved about Tyrod Taylor: I' so excited to have him, I can't tell you. Haven't seen a guy keep these hours in the springtime. He's just hitting his stride, coming into his own.

https://twitter.com/ScottPetrak/status/1007290207362744321

Defensive Coordinator Gregg Williams addressed the media on June 14, 2018.

Amos Jones: We're excited about having Jabrill Peppers as a big play threat

Tyrod certainly seems like a WORKER. I like that. He's not the best talent, but he's going to give us what he's got. Plus, Baker will basically learn from the start on how to prepare.

So they're playing Kendricks at weak side huh? Kendricks, Kirksey and Collins may very well be the starting linebackers.

j/c

The funny thing is YTown pointed out that the third day would be spent in the classroom.

Let's see..... New OC, all the rookies and UDFA's...... yeah, I can see where it would upset people that they're actually studying the new system rather than being on the field. GMAFB

Stephenson..afraid of competition? Don't know the facts on his holdout but quite frankly...Get rid of the bum!
Not that talented and I think he would have found it hard to make our final roster and he knows this. Begging to get cut so he can be a FA and find a better fit, one that he can possibly start.

Loved this:

Jarvis Landry can’t think of a single receiver who reminds him of Josh Gordon.
“He’s in a league of his own,” Landry said. “The way he can run routes separates him. I’ve never seen a guy his size who can get in and out of cuts like a small guy.”
5, Coaches have made sure all spring that Gordon is matched against rookie No. 4 overall pick Derek Ward during team drills.
Ward’s speed is plain to see. He seems to glide in coverage. One time Tuesday, though, Gordon beat Ward badly on a quick slant and was open by 3 yards when Tyrod Taylor delivered the ball.

1. Love the speculation of Gordon, quite frankly he just might be the best in the NFL???

2. Love the fact that we have Ward covering him every play this will only make Ward better and faster at his trade. Man we look so good on paper and in theory It scares me to be this impressed with our team as in, is it too good to be true.

Scary to be this up on our team...really I know my rep as a Homer, but deep inside never been this up on our team before.

jmho

The Cleveland Browns have signed K Ross Martin. Martin participated in the team’s minicamp this week on a tryout basis. To make room on the roster, the club waived LB DeMarquis Gates.


Martin is 5-9, 187-pounds and officially in his first NFL season out of Duke. Originally signed by the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2016, Martin has spent the past two training camps with the Jets. He set Duke records for career field goals made (78), field goals attempted (93), field goal percentage (.893), PATs (196) and total points (430). He is a native of Solon, Ohio and attended Walsh Jesuit High School.

Grace signed with the Browns on May 22.

http://www.clevelandbrowns.com/news/arti...medium=referral

We will have to agree to disagree ..

From where I sit , a Team that has performed as poorly as ours since 1999 and has of late gone 1-31 , needs all the GOOD Optics it can get .

Well, "Fin Feather Fur Outfitters" is currently having an Optics Trade-In sale, so feel free to swap out your Bushnell and Burris for some Leupold and Vortex glass!

Not to totally derail the thread, but Vortex is some damn fine stuff. I have two pair of Vortex binos.

For those of you complaining that a "1-31 team" needs more reps in minicamp....last time I checked, this team's record is 0-0. This isn't the same team as last year. They will get all the reps they need later this summer when it matters.

No, we are a 1-31 team. Until we do something to change the record. We seem different on paper, but paper doesn't count.

This situation kind of reminds of a baseball season a few years ago. A friend is a big Red Sox fan and someone asked him about a horrible start the team had in one season. He said he wasn't worried because the games in April don't mean much. When the season was over, they missed the playoffs by one game.

I guess I am old fashioned and believe that practice makes perfect.

No, the one practice won't make a big difference, to me it more in the message.

Go Browns.

Looks just like my Alcoholic next door neighbor, I mean dead ringer for him...lol

One of the best QB rooms he's been around. From TT to Stanton, intelligence seems to be the best he's been around.

BM has a lot of work to do and learning. Its not a matter of if but just when...glad we are in no rush. Let the kid "GET IT" before being called upon. TT best QB I think we ever had. Garcia was past his prime...more like Garcia during his prime.

I still think that was one of our best plays...play action pass with Garcia dropping back into our Endzone and connecting on a long TD pass! That and the Colt McCoy TD pass to our seldom pass catching TE from that 3 man OL look with the OT's spread out wide. Fake screen and hit the TE going long into the endzone. I've created around 40 plays from that formation...we call it Breakout.

jmho

Oh, we are? Where's Kizer and Kessler? Where's Crow? Where's Kenny Britt and Tramon Williams? Where's Cam Erving and Alvin Bailey? Give our 2018 team a chance on the field before you blame them for our past W-L record.

As far as your buddy is concerned, I hope he learned that every regular season game counts, even in a 162-game season. I understand the point you are making, but I think it's a bit of a stretch.



I agree, but cutting a few hours of mid-June skeleton drills with guys wearing T-shirts is insignificant IMO. There's only so much you can really accomplish. I just want our team to stay healthy and out of trouble and to be ready for training camp.

...or give our 2018 fans some wins before you claim "this is going to be different". We've hunted this dog before and he's gun shy.

Exactly. No one is "blaming" the current players for anything that happened in the past. But every year we hear how much better we are going to be.

I am tired of hearing about how we look on paper and tired of moral victories. Until those start counting in the standings, they are just noise.

I don't disagree with you guys. But if we struggle to win games again this year, we won't be pointing to a few hours of missed "reps" in June as the reason. Just trying to keep things in perspective.

Just a minor difference of opinion....welcome to the board.

I would just add that we can't run any 11 on 11 this early, either.

From all reports, the team worked hard, and practiced well. The ball wasn't on the ground a lot, which is what you want in these kinds of drills. Players weren't making a bunch of stupid mental mistakes, not even young guys.

The team legitimately seems to have earned their early release from OTAs,

GC. The Question I find myself asking today is, Is Hue Jackson going to get this team to perform at a level on gamedays that can result in wins.

I'm asking, if the level or improvement is going to be negated by that on gameday, it doesn't matter if you are head and shoulders a more talented and better team if you can't reach a winning level of football.

I mean if the whole team has to reach another level, if another level is required to get wins in the Reg. season, then it doesn't matter if you have better players who don't reach that level, or worse players who don't reach that level.

And that worse players, if a coach can get them to reach that other level of teamwork, consistency, and just plain better by determination to best the other team, the worse players are going to be a better team.

And every group I've ever been around is better if they've been together over a longer time, And the Browns, in the AFC North, are still the team with the least time of hanging out together, straight up
The Steelers have been together more years, QB, RB, Wr, and so on
The Bengals have too,
And so have the Ravens, ( I'll assume, haven't followed them)

But if the Browns can keep the team together they can get better by forming a bond as a team that will result in better performances on gameday.

And it's Hue Jackson, and the other coaches responsibility to get the team to do this.

I wonder what kind of Football the Browns will be this fall.

Are we going to see a game where the Browns rush for almost 200 yards against a backup Qb and still lose,
Are the Browns going to get to another level on game day so they can win.

Throw, one thing I really loved about Hue was the fact he came in with great gameplans. I think he kinda got lost in halftime adjustments but We came out strong last year in most games. This is where hopefully Haley can really help matters out.

Haley is from that Parcels offensive philosophy and I really think with Chubb and Hyde, we get the lead and we are gonna take the air out of the ball and just make life miserable for defenses.

We won in preseason last year but we never had QB play to where I thought damn we are gonna win with this kid or with Brock or with Hogan or with Kessler. Just felt the only shot we had to win was by pounding the rock in throwback style but Hue just doesnt commit for 60 mins to the run.

I still dont know if we have a QB. I hear all the praise about Taylor's accuracy and I keep thinking, is this the same Tyrod that was in Buffalo overthrowing a TE by 10 yards when no defender was within 20 of him lol. What we do have is a monster offensive line, the most talented group of receiving options that I have ever seen in a Browns Jersey at the same time and a backfield that imho is as talented as the guys we had in the 80s.


Anyway I think Hue is a good Monday-Friday coach its just the sunday thing he needs to work on.

Eligible for off-season and preseason activaties ... Yet he has still been absent.

Well, that answers a LOT.

No way he's still around when training camp rolls around, right?

"I got caught, now I'm mad... screw everyone."

Great attitude.

I don't recall who we signed first ... Donald or Hubbard?

IMO ... He never had much of a chance to make the roster unless due to an injury, given that we drafted Corbett, and he and Drango can backup two positions or more, and unless Corbett starts getting reps @OC, then Reiter is a pretty safe bet to be one of the 8-9 OL.

Then their are the two dark horse OTs' Johnson and Harrison. The former has a good chance, like the latter was, to be red shirted on the IR (speculation), to give him that extra time in the system to preform his mental and physical gymnastics.

Just curious, Ward fan? Hopefully of course full fledge Brown's fan. Welcome to the board, you are joining us at a unique time. Its been a long haul and we finally are at the crossroads of starting an actual dynasty here. Exciting times ahead of us.

These coaches are one's not to mess around. If they decided on giving the day off, whether it had to do with heat or just playing odds cause they didn't have any significant injuries and just felt like they would dodge a bullet by doing so. Whatever the reasons, I trust their judgement. One day in shorts will not a season make.

Missing one day of HITTING now that is serious as we are only allotted a certain amount of days.

jmho

Kinda? I'm not a Hue hater, but that's an understatement. I hope he and the staff work on that and become more proficient at the adjustments.

Dynasty?

If we are I bet Duke becomes a hall of fame WR, too.

Ward who? You mean Denzel Ward? I like him, but I'm not a Buckeye fan if that's what you're getting at. So yes, I'm a full fledged Browns fan, but not because of Ward or any specific player. Just a long time lurker that finally got around to registering.

I agree, we are finally on our way from the outhouse to the penthouse. I haven't felt this good about the team in at least 10 years.

I'm not sure that it isn't more a question of misunderstanding than it is a difference of opinion.

From earlier in the thread it seems they simply moved the third day into the classroom. With a new O being installed and all new QB's in the room, including an almost completely new secondary, I'm not so sure that classroom work may not be a more valuable way to invest the time.

Now to me, if they'd simply have packed it up and went home, I too would be upset. But considering the turnover in the secondary and a new O scheme, I can see how they may have seen the classroom a better investment of time at this juncture.

Yeah go ahead and ignorantly make fun of me. HOF as stated several times is to state that Taylor made the change and became a HOF WR just noting Duke is every bit as good as Taylor. But laugh at me with ignorance.

Dynasty. We finally got a true Franchise QB Prospect and the first one taken top 5 since our 1999 poor investment of Couch as a 1st year Franchise. TT is the best QB we have gotten here since 1999. WRs and weapons galore, this is not HOMER BLINDNESS these are facts.

On D we got Edge Pass Rushers We now have Cover Corners. The combo of the two are very Dynasty like.

I didn't say we will see it come to fruition this season all though I think many will be surprised.

I've never heard a buzz about our talent here since 1999. We still are not done building this and will only get better.

Dynasty, the only thing you got and yes, it is a big thing is that it hasn't shown itself on the field yet. I get it. But to think we are not close to building on is just being ignorant to the facts.

But to say emphatically that we are, is blind optimism.
I’m glad the Browns have cheerleaders like you. You’re needed.
They’ve sucked the soul from many of us who have just become flatline. I now believe nothing that isn’t proven on the field. I no longer even wish for the best as wishing has done nothing in the past. I’ve honestly just become emotionally disconnected. It’s why I’m watching no pressers or any other media. It’s talk, not action. I want action. Action that leads to wins. I’ll watch them talk about winning once they actually start winning. . (I watch/have watched/will continue to watch every game. Regardless of record.)
Maybe what you say about the Browns actually turning the corner will be seen played out. I certainly ready for it. When that time comes I’m looking forward to my passion being reignited.
Until then...I don’t care.

Sometimes becoming emotionally disconnected is the best case scenario for your sanity. I wish I could do it and have to admit that often times I envy those who can.

For me it requires a media blackout. I’m not going to allow any FO, Coach, or player talking head try to suck me back in with words. I’ve fallen for it since ‘99. If they don’t produce on the field none of the talk matters.
So I wait to see what they do where it does matter. On the playing field.
My sanity is more important than their words.

I’m a DNR. If I go down in the backyard while mowing, or facedown into my salad at dinner...let me go. I’m none the wiser. Don’t care if I’m only 46+ years old.
The flip side is my nightmare. I live into my late 80’s early 90’s and spend 5+ years crapping myself while being fed purred food. No thanks.

The biggest knock on hue in my book is the team never being prepared. Stupid penalties, bad time management, never making adjustments....the list can go on.

But preparation is absolutely one thing that is not in HUES corner as a strength.

This absolutely speaks volumes to me and others, that someone who is NEVER prepared himself, is ok taking time off early....

I always felt that until I had a son. Now, give me as much time as I can with him.

Shon Coleman determined to be starting left tackle, but the job remains up for grabs
by Scott Petrak June 18, 2018

Shon Coleman slid into the vacancy created by the retirement of 10-time Pro Bowler Joe Thomas and spent the offseason working as the first-team left tackle.

He’ll enter training camp atop the depth chart.

He plans to make it permanent.

“Yeah, definitely. I’m not working to be a backup to anybody,” Coleman told The Chronicle-Telegram last week during minicamp. “A great opportunity, I’ve just got to take it and run with it.”


The conviction is admirable, and necessary to succeed at the highest level, but Coleman starting Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers is far from a certainty. From coach Hue Jackson to coordinator Todd Haley to line coach Bob Wylie, it was unanimous the most important position on the line would remain unsettled well into training camp.

“Obviously, we are talking about replacing one of the best players to ever play that position,” Jackson said. “I would not be a very good coach if I did not try everybody over there first before we made that decision.

“We have to make sure that we have somebody that is comfortable that can play that spot that gives us a chance to win games.”

The battle at left tackle is fascinating for several reasons.

At the top of the list is that for 11 offseasons the Browns had no doubt who would protect the quarterback’s blind side. Thomas seized the role as a rookie and never missed a snap until midway through last season.

Whoever assumes the job will feel the weight of being constantly compared to someone seemingly destined for the Hall of Fame. The other candidates are rookie Austin Corbett, the No. 33 pick; undrafted rookie Desmond Harrison, who’s athletically gifted but was out of football for two years in college; and left guard Joel Bitonio, who is a last resort because the move would weaken the interior.

“I have been encouraged with the growth of Shon,” Haley said. “We do have a Plan B, Plan C and potentially a Plan D that we do not even know about.”

Coleman, a third-round pick in 2016, is in a unique spot. He started 16 games at right tackle last year but was a left tackle throughout his high school and Auburn careers. With Thomas’ future in doubt at the conclusion of last year, Coleman spoke openly about his desire to move back to the more natural left side if the opportunity presented itself. Then when Thomas made his decision official, one of the first things he did was train with Coleman.

“I hate saying we can’t have him back next year,” Coleman said. “He’s such a big role model for me and the rest of the O-line, but it’s definitely big shoes to fill and I’m just trying to do whatever I can to do it.”

Thomas worked with the linemen throughout the spring, including attending meetings. He has focused with Coleman on the specifics of pass protection and being more detailed.

“I don’t think it’s intimidating, but it’s definitely a big challenge,” Coleman said of the prospect of replacing Thomas. “He’s held down that spot just like the ironman should.”

Thomas was a technician who spent countless hours perfecting his craft. Coleman (6-foot-7, 310 pounds) is more of a brawler, with concerns about his ability to protect against elite edge rushers.

“He has the athleticism. We need to keep working on the fundamentals,” Wylie said. “He’s a good enough athlete that he gets himself in some awkward positions and gets himself out of them. He has to keep working on the footwork and the hands.”

Right guard Kevin Zeitler lined up next to Coleman for nearly every snap last season and doesn’t think he should be underestimated.

“Shon is a true freak of a man,” Zeitler said. “He’s that type of guy that can pick up a D-lineman and take him 10 yards and throw him. They always say O-linemen should be able to do that, but there’s only a couple of guys who really can do that play after play.

“He has to get used to being on the left side again but he’s working with Joel, who’s one of the best guards in the NFL, and they’re going to be a devastating side when they get comfortable with each other.”

Linemen can’t truly be evaluated without pads, so the real battle won’t start until training camp. But Coleman got a large dose of what to expect by facing off against defensive end Myles Garrett, the No. 1 pick last year.

“Going up against him definitely lets me know what my weaknesses and my strengths are, what I need to work on,” Coleman said. “It’s definitely making me a lot better player.

“I mean, you go up against him and then go against somebody else, you can definitely tell the difference in what type of player you’re going up against. That’s going to be good for me going into the future.”

Garrett had a simple answer when asked about Coleman.

“He can’t touch me,” he said.

Garrett has a dry sense of humor and likes to needle teammates. After a long pause and a follow-up question, he elaborated on his scouting report.

“He’s definitely a great run blocker and he’s coming along as a pass blocker, as well,” Garrett said. “I like going against him because he’s aggressive and he doesn’t stop. He’s always trying to get after it whether it’s play one or play 40 in practice and I like the intensity and effort he brings.”

The Browns saw Coleman for a season at right tackle and an offseason against Garrett but aren’t ready to declare him the answer at left tackle.

“We will see. We have not played a game with him over there,” Jackson said. “Shon has done a good job. Shon has worked extremely hard. He deserves the right to have this opportunity to see if he can be the left tackle.

“We will know more about that once the pads come on and it is an everyday, get-after-it session.”

https://www.brownszone.com/2018/06/18/sh...s-up-for-grabs/

No. I understood the situation. I knew they did their classroom deal that morning.


I would have liked to see them hit another allowed practice.

Like I said, "practice makes perfect" means something to me.


It's old news at this point.

C'mon, man.... you throw the 'ignorant' word at me a couple times, yet won't back down from calling us a dynasty in the making. LOL!!

You didn't just not back down, you DOUBLED down on what is at this point a laughable prediction.

I'm really rooting for Shon. I've always liked his story with beating cancer and etc. He's a wrecking ball with run blocking and I'd like to see him take the LT spot, hold it down, get paid and provide us someone stable in JT's absence that can pass and run block.

He, or anyone there at LT, has solid help with Joel there beside em'. It's a position I'll be monitoring the most probably through training camp and etc.

FWIW ...

view older
Austin Corbett - G - Browns

BrownsZone's Scott Petrak is "leaning toward" second-rounder Austin Corbett winning the left tackle job.

Corbett worked at multiple positions during the offseason program as Shon Coleman handled the first-team left tackle work, but Petrak does not "get the sense the coaches are satisfied with Coleman." OL coach Bob Wylie said as much last week, indicating Coleman needs to work on his footwork and fundamentals. While the rest of the line is solid, left tackle looks like it will be an area of concern no matter who wins the job.

Source: BrownsZone

Imagine that ... No Joe Thomas and it becomes an area of concern

Does anybody have Ross Verba's number??

I knew we should've drafted Nelson and let Bitonio move outside

I love Joe. So don’t take this wrong.
31 teams have gone 11 years without Joe, or a Joe equivalent, on their team. A few of those teams won championships in that timeframe. JT isn’t ‘replaceable’ but the position can be played by others at a level that can hold the fort. As long as whomever we put there isn’t a total turnstyle they won’t be the reason why we lose...or win.

Hmm, this would be ideal IMO. Let's hope Corbett is right for the job.

The best thing about football is that your team is really only as strong as the weakest link. It's truly a team sport, unless you don't have a QB, then you're dead in the water.

I think Wylie actually said something more like this: Coleman is very athletic and that athleticism allows him to make-up-for / get-away-with occasional, less-than-his-best technique...THEN...Wylie said Coleman needs to continue to work on his footwork and technique. (Other than Joe Thomas...who doesn't?)

Zeitler called Coleman a freak and said something like this: When "they" (implying Coleman & Bitonio) get their chemistry down, they will be dominant.

when they drafted Corbett, they basically said one of these things is going to happen:

1. Corbett would play LT
2. Corbett would play LG and Bitonio would play LT
3. Corbett would play C and Tretter would be a backup/released.
4. Corbett would play RG and Zeitler would be released.
5. Corbett would not play.

And then we sign OL Greg Robinson and waived OL Rod Johnson

Good read here:

http://www.news-herald.com/sports/201806...feet-for-browns

I may have missed it, but I never saw any coach on the team even suggest that Bitonio would be considered at LT. Only from fans. Like I said, I may have missed it though.

Ty, ... Not a great endorsement for Coleman imo.

Joe Thomas doesn't because Joe Thomas always does (did).

No doubt...a degree below lukewarm.

I think Corbett will be fine.


Not to mention the LT position has become over rated.


In the era of the lead footed QB, it was the supreme position on the OL. Now days, not so much IMO.

QB's today can move. Also, the quickest way to the QB is up the middle and get in his face. If you can stone front that to give him a step up pocket, all's good....as long as you don't have a lead footed QB who can't step up a few feet before throwing.

Nothing really bad about him. No pads on, he can't be himself or physical as I'm sure he'd like. Worse thing said was the gap between the others is not far (but he has the lead) and that Garrett was whipping up on him.

They don't double in this time of year, so one on one vs Myles... anyone going to get whipped on lol. Just need the pads to come on for a true evaluation.

Add this to your spot on comment: The sloppy, lazy QB who loafs his required drop or who cheats the full drop. Line blocks for that depth of drop. The QB who cheats the drop or is too casual getting back can't step up as far. We have had some of this, especially some one-readers. Crisp and complete drops give you more of that step up when needed. But the drop is rarer. Just timing gets screwed up, and things get worse like dominoes falling.

"Quicksand"
-Shane Falco

I didn't care to see them take a day off, and I know it wouldn't be "meaningful" reps on the field, because I said in football reps make you better. So it seemed logical that this time could have been used, not in "shorts time" necessarily, but nothing to be worked on? I would favor the habits that day gave you. Some snark seemed to think I am a dunce suggesting W-L depended on that day's practice. Not so.
But the habit part I stand by. If coaches felt it was needed, then OK. I have disagreed with coaches before, probably only one here who has. Practice might have provided some upside.
I know the real work will be there. There was no flaw there either way.

By all reports, the team worked really hard in their on field sessions, and made very few mental mistakes. The ball wasn't on the ground a lot .... there weren't a bunch of drops. The team earned a day off, and I think that goes a long way with the players, especially when this session was little more than a glorified 7 on 7 walkthough. (at best)

I think the market that players are paid disputes your LT assertion. Edge rushers are some of the highest paid D players in the NFL. If you weren't game planning on depending on those edge rushers to get to the QB, you wouldn't be paying them as the top paid players on D. NFL D's most certainly game plan on rushing the QB's from the edge.

They are however looking to exploit which ever T that is weakest. All you need to do is look at the penalties Coleman committed last year in order to prevent that from happening.

Listening to Bob today (our weird but in a good way o-line coach)... it sure sounds like the LT is open.

He even said Joel took a few snaps there, although in a later question alluded to why take a top four (or five, I forget what he said about Joel) guard and change him somewhere where he'd have to learn a lot of new things.

Sounds like Coleman is battling with technique. Truthfully, I just want the best player available there.

Market prices tend to lag. Let';s watch them over the next 5 years.

Desmond Harrison played LT at Texas before getting into trouble.

he's a sleeper, no doubt ... but probably a PS type guy for the foreseeable future

LB...can you give me a link to that OL coach presser...I missed it, I would love to see/listen to it. Would greatly appreciate it. Thanks

Unfortunately I'm on my mobile until this evening and the official website redirects users on smaller screens but goto clevelandbrowns.com, it's well worth listening to.

I'll refer to the 2017 NFL draft. The very first pick in the draft was Myles Garrett. He's an edge rusher. Edge rushers are one of the highest paid and sought after commodities in the NFL.

You don't stop those without solid OT's. We'll just have to agree to disagree on this one.

with how offenses have changed over the last 5 to 7 years the LT position has been a bit devalued.
you can have the best LT in the game and still go 1 and 31
offenses now dictate the qb gets the ball out of his hands in under 3 seconds.
hoq many qbs.do.we see under center taking a 7 step drop?
i would put a center now of equal value to a LT.

Sure it has. lol

That's why edge rushers are one of the highest valued positions outside of QB. Because the NFL no longer pressures QB's from the outside. I'm not even sure if some of you hear yourselves. lol

of course they still pressure from the outside.
but now teams are looking for players to pressure from the inside just as well.
your center is just as valuable as the LT.
if you get pressure up the middle your inital play is dead.
if you get pressure from the outside the qb can still step in the pocket buy a view more seconds and release.

We just might put the THEORY to the test this season .. Taylor scrambling for his life or flat on his back ..

It's funny because NFL salaries do not reflect that C's and G's are worth as much as LT's.

Go look at where the starting centers are drafted and compare that to where the starting LT’s were drafted ... then go look at the salaries of the top Centers compared to the top LT’s ...

The guards blow the Center position away in terms of draft and pay slot ....

I think the Center position is way undervalued because they call out the blocking assignmentswhen they get to the line and then make any audibles to them if theres shifts and time allows ....

Its clear that LT’s are still the 2nd most important position on O ...

How many movies are named after who the centers or guards block are there ... ....

Watch the movie the blindside ... first scene is one Joe Thiesman “for the Heisman” who was mobile enough to have started his NFL career as a punt returner having his career ended by the DE coming off his BLIND SIDE and everyone knows the rest ....

in the 1st rd of the NFL Draft there was 2 centers 2 guards 2 Left Tackles selected
Zack Martin of the Cowboys is making " Left tackle " money
with defenses now putting a emphasis on 4 d lineman that can get to the QB,you bet center and guards are at a premium now

Keep in mind its not devalued at all in NEED especially if the NFL is becoming a passing league more and more.

As for 1-31. The LT can only give "OPPORTUNITY" for others to make the offense succeed. Unfortunately for Joe Thomas he has not had a REAL NFL QB to give that opportunity for. Lets say somebody like ELI Manning, Joe Thomas would have changed Eli's career from a good QB to probably a GREAT one as he never had a good LT to give him the opportunity to be GREAT.

The best Joe T ever had was DA and we all know he's a career back up QB. So the position isn't devalued but Joe T cannot throw the ball and sadly we wasted the best LT in the NFL by not getting a viable QB until this season ironically the first after Joe T's retirement.

Now lets say we go 8-8 and just by going on the stats people will start saying, see what good is a LT cause with the best we were 1-31 and without him we are 8-8. He is not a game changer per say. He can only give others the opportunity to succeed.

But here is the fact about the LT position. The "SKILL SET" to be a good-great LT is "RARE" that is what makes it an important position. Not cause he scores TDs but for the simple fact that the skill set NEEDED is a rare find. That is what puts it up high on the list.

Again. in order: QB, LT, EDGE RUSHER, COVER CORNER...these are the positions that need a skill set that just are not enough to go around to every team. So if you get these you have a step up on breaking the PARITY that the NFL is built on.

The shame of it all is for 11 seasons the only one we had was LT and now we got QB, Edge Rusher and Cover Corner and we are missing LT.

jmho

You all got me thinking. I can see both sides of this, although not so much the priority on interior. I think that with offenses spreading the field horizontally there is a lack of help from the backfield and tight end. Defenses have been taking advantage by lining up their best pass rusher over the RT where they are not getting helped... maybe a chip on the route out of the backfield. I think guarding the edge is as important as ever, but the focus should be on having two solid tackles rather than a blindside beast, as you need to scheme against individual D's.

In regards to the D, pass rusher is always a priority.If you have bad corners the rush might not get there. However, if you have no pass rush even the best corner can't maintain. Isn't this so common sense it should be cliche? It gives me some faith in the Browns process, as it seems they've tried to build the front seven and then address the secondary.

in terms of our pass rush, the more I've thought about it, the more I think Ogbah is INTEGRAL for this team. We basically gambled on him to be a dominant force opposite Garrett ... after all, that's why we passed on Chubb. We need that other pass rush to make everything else "go"

I agree that Ogbah is a force and an above average DE opposite Garrett .... I disagree we passed on Chubb because we were essentially gambling. I think Ward was a position of need and is an elite talent. We've seen reports that Ward is more talented and works harder than Lattimore ... if he comes close to that billing it's a great pick.

I think the main reason we passed on Chubb is because we needed a cover CB in the worst way.

there's no doubt we needed a cover corner ... so let's really hope that:

A. Ward turns out to be a Pro Bowl type CB
B. Ogbah stays healthy and improves

I think it was the Jamar Taylor draft mandate. Our corners got abused, especially in the clutch.

I agree.

Dorsey has said he had Chubb and Ward ranked equally. That does happen, so the fallback was to draft for the greater need.

I also think we feel our D-line is stacked with really good players. We have a lot of versatility with that unit that will benefit all the more if we can cover guys up a few seconds longer.

IMO Chubb is not near the pass rusher most think he is ... i just don’t see the explosion or the burst ... i think he is a very good DE but he’s a “combo” DE as opposed to the pass rushing phenom MG is ...

Go watch his tape ... the explosion or the burst is simply not there IMO ...

On a side note .. IMO Ogbah is underrated by most ... and i wasn’t an Ogbah guy ... he really started to impress me as his rookie year went on and he was playing some good football by the end of it ...

Looking forward to seing him this year to confirm or blow up my thoughts on him ...

+1

Add me in. Ogbah doesn't get nearly as much credit as he deserves, almost word for word when the dline coach talked to us recently. He's solid in the run and was starting to really break free on his rushes before he was hurt.

I also felt the same with Chubb. When people said he was "better" than MG, I was confused. He's a beyond solid player though.

j/c

Ogbah's stats:

https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/O/OgbaEm00.htm

26 games played, 9.5 sacks, 46 tackles, 2 FF, 1 FR, 9 PD

Cleveland Browns placed OL Donald Stephenson on the reserve/retired list.

https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1015274921059024897

So is this burst and explosion a technique can be taught or learned, or is he just locked into whatever he has? I assume any technique can be improved, I am not certain what I am looking to see if it is not there. But you feel MG has it, correct?

Burst at the elite nfl level is something your born with ... u can work on certain muscle groups and do drills and fine tune the technique and u will improve but u will always be limited by the physical tools u were born with ....

Guys like LT are special ... burst like he had can’t be taught ... same with MG ... what he has can’t be taught ...

So ya MG has it ... he’s no LT but then again no one was ... MG has it in spades ... he’s got excellent burst ... u can just see him explode off the ball compared to others ...

MG also has a very unique skill ... his ability to turn into Gumby when getting around the corner is nothing short of incredible ... The closest to his combo is one Charles Haley ... he had the bend but it was not near as good as MG’s ...

If MG can be 80% of Haley we will have one hell of a football player ... i hope his ankles aren’t gonna be a problem for his entire career ... if this kid stays healthy ... he’s got a shot to be special .. very very special ...

Myles Garrett, on the NFL level has only been decent at best, not special yet, everyone can say potential, and ability, most teams have a guy like Garrett, now the Browns do to.
Is Myles Garrett a game changer? It would be hard to say yes yet. I don't think a lot of defenses really worry that the Browns have Myles Garrett, his room for development is still there, he's a young year 2 player.

Most teams have a guy like MG .... ....

Please do tell witch other teams have a DE so highly thought of coming out of college they were drafted with the top pick ... matter of fact go down to even top 5 picks ...

MG may never live up to his potential ... but theres a reason he went #1 ...

And weather he lives up to it or not ... his physical skills are VERY VERY VERY RARE!!!

Cleveland Browns Training Camp 2018: OL Preview, Part 1

A look at the four starters who appear to be locked in to a job heading into training camp.

https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2018/7/5/1...-preview-part-1



1. Joel Bitonio - Starting Left Guard

Height: 6-4 | Weight: 305 lbs | Age: 26
Experience: 5 years | College: Nevada

The Browns took care of Joel Bitonio’s contract last offseason, so he will be with the team through the 2022 season. The big question the team faces right now is whether they keep Bitonio in his comfort zone at left guard, or do they consider using him as the heir to Joe Thomas at left tackle?

Bitonio was the 6th-highest graded guard in the NFL last year by Pro Football Focus, and it was the first time since his rookie year that he was able to avoid injury to start all 16 games. Although he still needs to work his way up a little to be recognized as a Pro Bowler in the AFC, he is already a complete player, excelling in both run and pass blocking.

Offensive line coach Bob Wylie recently talked about how he doesn’t doubt that Bitonio could play left tackle, but why fix what isn’t broken?





2. Kevin Zeitler - Starting Right Guard

Height: 6-4 | Weight: 315 lbs | Age: 28
Experience: 7 years | College: Wisconsin

Last year was Kevin Zeitler’s first as a member of the Browns and he, like Joel Bitonio, started every game at his position (right guard). The most veteran player of the offensive line in terms of years of experience, Zeitler was another player who I had Pro Bowl aspirations for in 2017. He got off to a bit of a slow start to the season, perhaps exasperated by all of the team’s losing ways.

By the end of the season, Zeitler had found his ground, finishing as the 10th-highest graded overall guard by Pro Football Focus, with a top-10 pass block ranking and a top-25 run block ranking. In late November, Zeitler allowed his first sack since Week 1 of the 2016 season when he was a member of the Bengals. He has been durable, not having missed any games in the past three seasons.



3. J.C. Tretter - Starting Center

Height: 6-4 | Weight: 307 lbs | Age: 27
Experience: 6 years | College: Cornell

Last year was J.C. Tretter’s first year as the Browns’ new starting center and he did what he needed to do: provide more stability than Cam Erving ever did. He is playing on a pretty affordable contract and was named the Browns’ best individual pass blocker last year by PFF with a grade of 97.2, only allowing 25 pressures on the season.

Tretter is also a former member of the Green Bay Packers, where a good portion of Cleveland’s front office was rooted. They should know Tretter well and the player he has become. It is true that the position could be upgraded in the future, but right now, it would have to be one of the lower priorities for the team to consider, and they still have a couple of backup candidates on the roster.



4. Chris Hubbard - Starting Right Tackle

Height: 6-4 | Weight: 295 lbs | Age: 27
Experience: 5 years | College: Alabama-Birmingham

The Browns signed Chris Hubbard to a 5-year, $37.5 million deal with $18 million guaranteed this offseason. The contract is a little high for a player who is far from a proven commodity. The signing immediately made him the new starting right tackle, abruptly bumping Shon Coleman over to left tackle to compete for a spot.

Hubbard, an undrafted free agent who signed with the Steelers in 2013, started 14 games over the past two seasons, including 10 last year at both guard and right tackle. New offensive coordinator Todd Haley could have been a champion for urging the team to sign Hubbard. DBN’s Andrea Hangst follows the Steelers closely and wrote about the move when it happened. Here is a snippet of what she had to say:



According to Pro Football Focus, Hubbard only allowed 3 sacks last year and was the league’s 40th-graded lineman, a number that could have been higher if it weren’t for one “disastrous” game he had against the Ravens.

-----------------------------------------------------------




Cleveland Browns Training Camp 2018: OL Preview, Part 2

A look at the four players competing at left tackle heading into training camp.



5. Shon Coleman - Current Left Tackle

Height: 6-5 | Weight: 310 lbs | Age: 26
Experience: 3 years | College: Auburn

After seeing very little action as a rookie, Shon Coleman became the team’s starting right tackle in 2017 and didn’t miss a snap all year. With the retirement of Joe Thomas, the team tried to pursue Nate Solder as a free agent this offseason, but he preferred to sign with the New York Giants. In a somewhat unconventional move, with a vacant left tackle spot, the team decided to pay big money to a starting right tackle (Chris Hubbard), pushing Coleman out of his starting job from a year ago.

All is not lost for Coleman, as he is being given the first crack at the starting left tackle job, and Thomas has tried to pass along some of his wisdom to him. But remember, Cody Kessler was the team’s starting quarterback at this time last year too, and look what happened. Left tackle is a wide open competition heading into camp, and offensive line coach Bob Wylie talked about the challenges Coleman faces switching from the right side to the left side:



That doesn’t mean Wylie doesn’t believe in Coleman, as he praised his athleticism. Coleman had, in my estimation, a pretty solid first year as a starting right tackle, so it does kind of feel like he got shafted a bit (because I honestly do not believe he will end up as the opening day left tackle). He should at least make the roster still.



6. Austin Corbett - Rookie Left Tackle

Height: 6-4 | Weight: 306 lbs | Age: 22
Experience: Rookie | College: Nevada

The Browns selected Austin Corbett with the No. 33 overall pick of the draft, and I always like to say that if a team stays put with the first pick of Day 2 of the draft, then they must really like the player they select (considering the trade offers they must be receiving).

Corbett played left tackle for all four years in college, but many scouting reports assumed he would transition to guard in the NFL. Cleveland is well set at both guard positions, though, so unless Joel Bitonio switches over to left tackle, it seems likely that the coaching staff’s “best-case scenario” is that the rookie looks the part of a capable left tackle in training camp.

Waiting for Next Year looked at the strengths and weaknesses of Corbett’s college tape. Among his strengths were strong hands, being a nasty finisher, awareness, and patient/fluid movement skills. His weaknesses include his hand positioning at times, pass protection technique, and overextending. I’m picking him to win the job in camp.



7. Greg Robinson - Veteran Left Tackle

Height: 6-5 | Weight: 330 lbs | Age: 25
Experience: 5 years | College: Auburn

After minicamp concluded, the Browns went out and signed veteran left tackle Greg Robinson, who was the No. 2 overall pick of the 2014 NFL Draft. Robinson has been the definition of a bust since entering the league, and if this infographic from Pro Football Focus doesn’t tell the story, then I don’t know what will:

The one edge that Robinson has in his favor is that he has started 48 games between the Rams and Lions. It seems unlikely that Robinson will miraculously be able to flip the switch in Cleveland, but on the same note, you have to think the team had some concern about the position to go out and sign him after minicamp. My projection for Robinson is that he ultimately will not make the roster, with preference given to younger talent.



8. Spencer Drango - Forgotten Left Tackle

Height: 6-6 | Weight: 315 lbs | Age: 25
Experience: 3 years | College: Baylor

Spencer Drango started 10 games last year after Joe Thomas went down. One would think that might make Drango the favorite to start at left tackle, but all it really did was build a resume for why he is not the man for the starting job. He showed that he can fill in and have some moments of stability, but this is something you never want to see:

This training camp, Drango figures to be in the mix as a backup guard again — the first player up if something were to happen to Joel Bitonio or Kevin Zeitler.

Whoever wins out the left tackle position there with all that competition is going to be solid IMO. No Joe Thomas, but it won't be a weakness on the line.

I need to see it for myself. None are JT, but they have to be mobile and slide.

If they are at least as good as Drango last season, we'll be ok.

j/c:

I have a question about Hubbard. I have been told by some Steeler fans who know football that while Hubbard was plugged in along the OL, he was most effective on the inside and not at tackle.

Any takes on that?

Exactly. It didn't become a glaring weakness when Spencer was plugged in.

In any case, we should be able to feel good with the person given the position. One of the top things I'll be following.

i'll admit ... i expected an F out of Drango last year.

He probably graded out below average, but it could have been much worse

We be drafting a Tackle [n the first next year !

I find it very interesting that all of Corbett's listed weaknesses were Joe's strong points, and that Joe is still around helping our O-linemen. If he can learn the proper hand placement, and pass protection technique from Joe then we could already have our next long term answer at LT on the roster.

I agree. I don't know why so many are eager to slide him to guard so soon.

Good point. JT is the ULTIMATE tactician ... it's literally his best attribute. Maybe they felt Corbett's biggest weakness was VERY fixable.

Cleveland Browns Training Camp 2018: OL Preview, Part 3

A look at the four players competing at left tackle heading into training camp.

https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2018/7/8/1...-preview-part-3



9. Austin Reiter - Backup Center

Height: 6-3 | Weight: 300 lbs | Age: 26
Experience: 3 years | College: South Florida

We all remember Austin Reiter’s claim to fame — he made one start in 2016 in place of an injured Cameron Erving and looked pretty impressive, but suffered a torn ACL. The fact that he was able to still make the roster in 2017 as a backup center, coming off of that injury, is a testament to what the coaching staff thinks of him, considering that J.C. Tretter had injury concerns from the previous year. If the team needed a next man up, Reiter was waiting in the wings all year.

Instead, Reiter only saw eight snaps all season on offense, with the rest of his time coming on special teams. Reiter won’t be contending for the starting center job in camp this year, but I think the team would still like to keep him as a backup, and he doesn’t face much competition for that role in camp.



10. Anthony Fabiano - Backup Guard/Center

Height: 6-4 | Weight: 303 lbs | Age: 24
Experience: 1 year | College: Harvard

Anthony Fabiano was claimed off waivers from the Indianapolis Colts in mid-May, but was a member of the Browns in 2016 when he played in four games, including one start. He was also with Hue Jackson and company in camp last year, but did not make final roster cuts.

Fabiano can play guard or center, but I think it will be the guard position where he tries to win a backup role at. His primary competition could be Spencer Drango; if Drango won the battle last year, you would figure that he’ll win it again.



11. Desmond Harrison - Rookie Offensive Tackle

Height: 6-6 | Weight: 295 lbs | Age: 24
Experience: Rookie | College: West Georgia

The dark horse candidate for the Browns’ left tackle job is Desmond Harrison. He might have a real shot at the opening if the team had not selected Austin Corbett, but he can still make an impression as one of the team’s two primary backup tackles.

Despite being an undrafted free agent, Cleveland’s interest was high enough in him that they used one of their 30 pre-draft visits on him. Harrison was projected to be a 5th or 6th round pick, but character concerns lowered his stock. Here is what Bleacher Report said about him:



Here is a link of some of Harrison’s highlights from college:






12. Avery Gennesy - Backup Offensive Lineman

Height: 6-3 | Weight: 318 lbs | Age: 24
Experience: 1 year | College: Texas A&M

Avery Gennesy was an undrafted free agent in 2017 who signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars and spent part of the season on the team’s practice squad. He can play guard or tackle. During the 2017 NFL Draft, NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein originally projected him to be a fifth round pick, offering the following assessment on him:



Funny enough, Zierlein also had a quote from an anonymous scout from the AFC North, who said “He’s unique because he’s athletic and has great feet, but his hips are stiff. He’s not strong enough to play guard and his anchor could get quarterbacks hit too much.”

Because of his physical specs I'm intrigued by Robinson the most. The kid has the skill set.

Does anyone have any articles on why he has been unsuccessful up to this date, I'm curious on if he is fixable and also curious is Joe Thomas is working with him at all!

jmho

I typed the question "What went wrong with Greg Robinson" in the google search line. Here is the first of several hits.

https://www.theringer.com/2017/6/16/1604...ts-dc63ea1482f6

Thanks very much. That was an excellent article and I recommend that anyone who would like to learn about football read it.

You know, we talk about how difficult it is for a Spread QB to transition to the NFL all the time. However, we rarely talk about how hard it is for an offensive lineman. I do know that many coaches, scouts, and former NFL o-linemen talk about just how hard it is.

Thanks again for the article. It was spot on and I really enjoyed reading it.

I read it, and it was eye-opening when they talked about the effect of college offenses on linemen. It's been well-chronicled how the spread so poorly prepares QBs, and almost as well-chronicled how certain offenses can have the same effect on receivers (running not-full/dumbed-down route trees), but I've read nothing until yesterday about how the same thing happens to linemen.

It makes sense now, but it's still surprising.

Agree completely. That was some good reading.

Good read.

Just as the NFL has had to adapt to the QB's being produced, it has to adapt to the linemen as well.

The college game isn't played the way it's played in the NFL. The NFL is going to have to change because the college game isn't because the HS game isn't.

Assuming that was him at LT in that pic...video wouldn't connect for me.
The entire OL were in 2 point stances, some too high right from the bat. He was low and had a decent knee bend.

But he looked very parallel to the LOS with his feet. Right there Joe Thomas can help with his Shot Put stance that he developed. Oh man I hope JT can get a hold of him and help with his technique. Kid has amazing specs!

thanks for the info. What happens a lot, when a guy is so big fast and strong all through his career nobody really teaches him great technique...he would just physically be better than anyone and over whelm them in the one on ones. so they now get into the NFL without any set technique so that they are literally being coached for the first time. But what I saw was very fixable.

jmho

That is great analysis to read, Eotab.

The LT can't survive on just brute force. And Thomas teaching him, he just gets more dangerous. I think Joe can help him adjust on the fly too. have to adjust, sometimes throughout a game to counter opponents' techniques.

Wish this guy lots of luck.

Cleveland Browns Training Camp 2018: WR Preview, Part 1

https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2018/7/12/...-preview-part-1

A look at the Browns’ revamped wide receiving group heading into training camp.
By Chris Pokorny@DawgsByNature Jul 12, 2018, 10:43pm EDT

In Part 1 of our training camp preview on the Cleveland Browns’ wide receivers, we look at the four receivers who seem assured of significant roles in the offense this year. This year’s group is much more exciting than when Kenny Britt was the main attraction this time last year.
----------------------------------------------------------

1. Josh Gordon - Starting Wide Receiver

Height: 6-3 | Weight: 225 lbs | Age: 27
Experience: 3 years | College: Baylor

Even though Josh Gordon returned to action last year for the first time since 2014, it still wasn’t quite right. It was during an 0-16 season, and Gordon was only available for the final 5 games of the season as he registered 18 catches for 335 yards and 1 touchdown.

In 2018, for virtually the first time in his NFL career, he could be on pace to participate in a “full” season with Cleveland — not just in games, but the whole offseason, including OTAs, minicamp, and training camp. Gordon’s talent is still undeniable. He is 27 years old, but has hardly had any wear and tear on his body despite being drafted in 2012. He is in his prime, and with his combination of size, speed, and strength, it is not a reach to say he could be the best receiver in the entire NFL.

Maybe some of you have forgotten how insane his 2013 season was, when he played 14 games and caught 87 passes for 1,646 yards and 9 touchdowns. The Browns hold the rights to Gordon through the 2019 season, and he has to know that a big year could lead to the contract extension he’s never been able to get due to all of his suspensions. He appears to be in outstanding shape, and the sky is the limit for him, especially with a more reliable quarterback in place now.

Final Roster Odds: 100%


2. Jarvis Landry - Starting / Slot Receiver

Height: 5-11 | Weight: 196 lbs | Age: 25
Experience: 5 years | College: LSU

The Browns’ biggest move of free agency came when they acquired Jarvis Landry from the Miami Dolphins for practically a 4th round draft pick. The contract extension that Cleveland gave him will keep him with the team through 2022 and is worth $75.5 million.

Landry can no doubt make some big plays, but the great thing about him is that he is a complement to Gordon. He is going to be the type of receiver who grabs 100 catches per year for 1,000 yards and 5-6 touchdowns.

Landry led the NFL in receptions from the slot position last year with 68, per Pro Football Focus (Larry Fitzgerald of the Cardinals was second with 65 receptions). He is very good at getting yards after the catch and forcing missed tackles.




Some may argue that the Browns overpaid a little for Landry. Even if that is true, who cares? He has proven to be consistently good at his role, and if it took this type of contract for Cleveland to buy a guaranteed 100-catch, 1,000-yard receiver, then I’m all in, especially when he won’t even be the team’s top receiver.

Final Roster Odds: 100%


3. Corey Coleman - Third Wide Receiver

Height: 5-11 | Weight: 185 lbs | Age: 24
Experience: 3 years | College: Baylor

There was a point in the offseason where I was almost certain the Browns were going to trade Corey Coleman, but I don’t believe that to be the case now. It’s not that I ever wanted Coleman to be traded. He has had ridiculous misfortune of luck in the NFL, breaking his hand in back-to-back seasons between Weeks 2-3. I mean, how often do you even hear of wide receivers breaking their hand once, let alone twice?

Coleman has flashed his first-round talent when he has played, but he also has a lot to work on to be a consistent player. Look at last year’s final play of the season that officially locked in an 0-16 season — a wide open sideline pass that bounced right off his face for an incompletion. He was devastated. But this isn’t a year to feel sorry for Coleman either. He needs to be confident, and rise to the occasion. The Browns will utilize Jarvis Landry a lot in the slot, which means Coleman will still get significant work as an outside receiver. Todd Haley said that he told Coleman this is a make-or-break year for him, and while Coleman won’t be a superstar in this type a role, he can still be an incredible asset to the offense.

Final Roster Odds: 98%


4. Antonio Callaway - Rookie Wide Receiver

Height: 5-11 | Weight: 200 lbs | Age: 21
Experience: Rookie | College: Florida

The Browns drafted Antonio Callaway despite his background. He was one of the players the team brought in to meet prior to selecting him in the fourth round, and they were convinced as an organization that they have the right people in place to keep him on the right track.

Callaway has exceptional speed with good route running to go along with it. He has impressed people through the offseason programs thus far, and his progress as a receiver will be one of the funner things to watch in training camp this year. As far as the depth chart goes, he won’t leap past either Josh Gordon or Jarvis Landry, but he could find a way to cut into the playing time of Corey Coleman. The more likely scenario is that as a rookie, he will contribute to a big role as a return man, while also seeing some snaps each week to stretch the field as a receiver.

Final Roster Odds: 100%

::facepalm::

Is he certain it isn't more correct to say 'more funnerer'?




Sorry.... that ridiculousness aside, I agree with his takes, and I'm really looking forward to seeing how this Callaway kid impacts things throughout the season. I think that he has a chance to put Coleman on the bench by the end of the season.

When I read or think about our WR corp, I can't help but think how much of a luxury it'd be if Corey Coleman finally stays healthy AND lives up to his value.

With Landry and Gordon... this means a few things:

Coleman will never see the likes of the #1 and hardly ever the #2 corner depending if he lines up outside/inside and where Landry lines up.

Coleman will never be double teamed.

... sounds like a solid situation if the kid is actually going to amount to anything. IMO, he doesn't and I almost would bet he has a soft tissue injury first week of TC.

Coleman outside with Landry in the slot or Landry outside with Callaway in the slot... choices, choices...

I'll give Dorsey his due, he's much better at paper football than past GM's.


please don't respond with Coleman in the slot, his hands aren't consistent enough for the hot route, option work.

Cleveland Browns 2018 Training Camp: Defensive tackle preview

https://www.cleveland.com/expo/sports/er...8-training.html

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- There is life after Danny Shelton.

The Browns are regrouping at defensive tackle position with Shelton off to New England, but they're confident they have the talent to help anchor the defensive line.

Never developing into a superstar, Shelton, the No. 12 pick in 2015, was shipped to the Patriots in March along with a 2018 fifth-round pick in exchange for a third-rounder in 2019.

"Danny's going to be missed," said defensive line coach Clyde Simmons at minicamp last month. "He brought a lot of energy to the room. But Jamie Meder is very capable, and Larry Ogunjobi is very capable. We do a lot of cross-training so it's not going to be just one guy trying to fill Danny's shoes. It's going to be several guys."
The Fab Four

The Browns have at least four defensive tackles that they're excited about this year, which is why they felt they could part with Shelton, a three-year starter who might fare better as a pure nose tackle in Bill Belichick's 3-4 scheme.

They have Parma Heights' own Meder and second-year pro Larry Ogunjobi vying for Shelton's 1-technique spot, and Trevon Coley and Caleb Brantley battling for the 3-technique position, where a premier tackle with the athleticism of the Los Angeles Rams' Aaron Donald can make his mark, both against the run and the pass.

In addition, the Browns added a couple of rookies in Daniel Ekuale of Washington State and Trenton Thompson of Georgia providing depth and competition. Thompson has been compared by some scouts to a young Ndamukong Suh.
Stout against the run

The Browns finished seventh in the NFL against the run last year, their best showing since 1992. Before that, their highest finish since 1999 was 18th. They held opponents to 3.35 yards per rush, second-best in the NFL and second in team history. But the Browns were 21st in sacks and 31st in points allowed, and defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, who switched the scheme to a 4-3 last season, wants more from his tackles than eating up blockers and stopping the run. He wants them in the backfield causing sacks, fumbles and dropping backs for a loss.

Regardless of how they line up or rotate, he expects them to make some noise this season.

"They are much better," he said. "When I say much better -- comfortable. ... We were (much) different than when you play in a 3-4 mechanism and you're catching and reading, staying on your side of the line of scrimmage. We are all vertical, knock back, coming off of the ball and knocking you back. That's why we were able to play a pretty good run defense. We will play even better."

The top four tackles are largely interchangeable, says Williams.

"All of those guys are playing really well," he said. "The four returners that are in there are doing really well with Caleb and Larry being the young guys. They'll take the next step. Caleb and Coley are both doing very well in a three-technique position. Some of the new, young guys coming in here are giving them a fight.''

Here's a look at the key tackles heading into camp.

-----------------------------------------------------------


1. Trevon Coley: A pleasant surprise

Coley was a bonus for the Browns in his first official year last season, and at 24 (his birthday was Friday, July 13), he's got plenty of room to grow. Coley started 15 games at tackle last season opposite Shelton, and had a promising debut. He finished with 41 tackles, two sacks, two passes defensed and one fumble recovery.

So where did he come from?

The Ravens originally signed him as an undrafted rookie out of Florida Atlantic in 2016, but waived him at the end of camp. The Redskins signed him to their practice squad in November of 2016, but released him less than a month later. The Browns added him to their practice squad two days later.

They signed him January of 2017 to a two-year deal worth $1.02 million, and he'll make a base salary of $555,000. For what he produced last year, that's a bargain. He'll get a push from Brantley, who flashed some playmaking ability as a rookie.

2. Jamie Meder: The Pierogi Prince strikes again

The "Pierogi Prince of Parma,'' as Joe Thomas dubbed him, worked alongside Coley with the first team in OTAs and minicamp, and has a chance to start this season. He's captured the attention of Williams and will be part of the tackle rotation at the very least.

"Jamie Meder is probably one of the best run players in the National Football League," said Williams. "You saw a little statistic last year."

Through the first six weeks last year, profootballfocus.com had Meder ranked as the league's second-best run-stopper. But in week 10 against the Jaguars, he injured his ankle and was placed on injured reserve for the final six games. The Ashland product has a chance to get back to his 2016 production, when he started 15 games in the 3-4 -- including 14 at end -- and totaled 48 tackles.

3. Larry Ogunjobi - A leap in year 2?

Ogunjobi is one reason Shelton became expendable. The 2017 third-rounder out of Charlotte showed enough promise in his limited playing time as a rookie (28.18 percent of the snaps) that the Browns hope he can make a big leap in year two.

But defensive line coach Clyde Simmons cautions that Ogunjobi (6-2, 305), who played football for the first time in his sophomore year of high school, is still very raw.

"You've got to remember, this is only his (ninth) year of playing football," said Simmons. "He's still learning how to play the game."

Ogunjobi, who played in 14 games last year and started one, had 32 tackles and a sack. He'll make a case for playing time at both tackle spots in camp.

4. Caleb Brantley: Flashing big-play ability

The Browns took a chance on Brantley in the sixth round of the 2017 draft out of Florida. The 6-2, 307-pound rookie flashed some big play ability in his limited snaps last season (20.32 percent). He started one of 12 games, registering 18 tackles, two sacks and a fumble recovery. That's two more sacks and one more fumble recovery than Shelton had in more than twice as many snaps. Brantley, who has good instincts, will mostly battle with Coley for playing time at the 3-technique.

5. The Rookies

The Browns signed Dan Ekuale and Trenton Thompson as undrafted rookies to add some competition in camp. Ekuale (6-3, 300) started 22 of his 51 games at Washington State, recording 71 tackles, three sacks and two forced fumbles.

Thompson (6-3, 288) had a breakout year as a sophomore at Georgia in 2016, when he led interior linemen with 56 tackles and five sacks. Last season, he made 38 tackles in his 13 starts.

If they don't make the team, they're practice-squad candidates.

Isn't pro football the pinnacle? Guys may succeed in other schemes, but I don't think it's a matter of changing because of the college game. Shouldn't professionals be able to identify players whose skills can transition to the next level despite their college playbook?

Thanks for the explanation. Something I want to watch when it gets real out there. I think he can be special as well.

Cleveland Browns Training Camp 2018: WR Preview, Part

Even though Josh Gordon returned to action last year for the first time since 2014, it still wasn’t quite right. It was during an 0-16 season, and Gordon was only available for the final 5 games of the season as he registered 18 catches for 335 yards and 1 touchdown.

In 2018, for virtually the first time in his NFL career, he could be on pace to participate in a “full” season with Cleveland — not just in games, but the whole offseason, including OTAs, minicamp, and training camp. Gordon’s talent is still undeniable. He is 27 years old, but has hardly had any wear and tear on his body despite being drafted in 2012. He is in his prime, and with his combination of size, speed, and strength, it is not a reach to say he could be the best receiver in the entire NFL.

Maybe some of you have forgotten how insane his 2013 season was, when he played 14 games and caught 87 passes for 1,646 yards and 9 touchdowns. The Browns hold the rights to Gordon through the 2019 season, and he has to know that a big year could lead to the contract extension he’s never been able to get due to all of his suspensions. He appears to be in outstanding shape, and the sky is the limit for him, especially with a more reliable quarterback in place now.

Final Roster Odds: 100%

The Browns’ biggest move of free agency came when they acquired Jarvis Landry from the Miami Dolphins for practically a 4th round draft pick. The contract extension that Cleveland gave him will keep him with the team through 2022 and is worth $75.5 million.

Landry can no doubt make some big plays, but the great thing about him is that he is a complement to Gordon. He is going to be the type of receiver who grabs 100 catches per year for 1,000 yards and 5-6 touchdowns.

Landry led the NFL in receptions from the slot position last year with 68, per Pro Football Focus (Larry Fitzgerald of the Cardinals was second with 65 receptions). He is very good at getting yards after the catch and forcing missed tackles.

@PFF_Fantasy
Golden Tate and Jarvis Landry are miles ahead of the field at receiver when it comes to forcing missed tackles.

Some may argue that the Browns overpaid a little for Landry. Even if that is true, who cares? He has proven to be consistently good at his role, and if it took this type of contract for Cleveland to buy a guaranteed 100-catch, 1,000-yard receiver, then I’m all in, especially when he won’t even be the team’s top receiver.

Final Roster Odds: 100%

There was a point in the offseason where I was almost certain the Browns were going to trade Corey Coleman, but I don’t believe that to be the case now. It’s not that I ever wanted Coleman to be traded. He has had ridiculous misfortune of luck in the NFL, breaking his hand in back-to-back seasons between Weeks 2-3. I mean, how often do you even hear of wide receivers breaking their hand once, let alone twice?

Coleman has flashed his first-round talent when he has played, but he also has a lot to work on to be a consistent player. Look at last year’s final play of the season that officially locked in an 0-16 season — a wide open sideline pass that bounced right off his face for an incompletion. He was devastated. But this isn’t a year to feel sorry for Coleman either. He needs to be confident, and rise to the occasion. The Browns will utilize Jarvis Landry a lot in the slot, which means Coleman will still get significant work as an outside receiver. Todd Haley said that he told Coleman this is a make-or-break year for him, and while Coleman won’t be a superstar in this type a role, he can still be an incredible asset to the offense.

Final Roster Odds: 98%

The Browns drafted Antonio Callaway despite his background. He was one of the players the team brought in to meet prior to selecting him in the fourth round, and they were convinced as an organization that they have the right people in place to keep him on the right track.

Callaway has exceptional speed with good route running to go along with it. He has impressed people through the offseason programs thus far, and his progress as a receiver will be one of the funner things to watch in training camp this year. As far as the depth chart goes, he won’t leap past either Josh Gordon or Jarvis Landry, but he could find a way to cut into the playing time of Corey Coleman. The more likely scenario is that as a rookie, he will contribute to a big role as a return man, while also seeing some snaps each week to stretch the field as a receiver.

Final Roster Odds: 100%

Poll
Who has a bigger year with the Browns in 2018?
Corey Coleman
Antonio Callaway
uild
Daily Dawg Chow (7/12/18)
Browns hold tryout with DB Jordan Holland

https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2018/7/12/...-preview-part-1

It's going to be interesting to watch the DT's this year. The Browns did a very good job against the run last year and I don't think they got a fair return for trading Shelton.

Can't wait to see Peppers playing inside 40 yards from the LOS.

I’m thinking it cant hurt ... he certainly couldn’t be any worse ...

I don't think Coleman has a 98% chance to make the roster. I'd say it's lower, like around 70%

But I agree about the DT position group .. it'll be interesting how it shakes out

Yeah, the DT group, even minus Danny, is still pretty intriguing. I didn't know who Larry was and we all read the reports the man didn't posses a long career of football... but I knew who he was after the season. That big man can move!

I think our starters will be Meder and Coley at DT. I think our starting DL is: Ogbah, Larry, Coley, Garrett with a fresh rotation at probably each one of those positions.

IMO, Coley looked lights out last season, in Shelton's role, and if he's not going to take Shelton's role,(NT), this year then I'm slightly worried.

I'm also not excited to hear Jamie Meder is the starter. We all know Meder, he's been around 3 or 4 years.
I think he rarely, (if ever), get's above mediocrity and sometimes is a weakness out there, And I don't care if the broadcast announcers love him, or if Cleveland loves him because he has a local background.

PFF can bring up stats for any of these guys from last year, but there is no accounting for that O-lines in 2018 were also planning on dealing with Danny Shelton and this year they won't have to.

The old, double teaming the biggest threat makes the other guys look like stars, is something that has been going on throughout the NFL for decades.

I think that we have a solid or better DT rotation.

Coley was a really pleasant surprise last year. Man, he has a solid base, and legs like tree trunks. I like Ogunjobi a lot, and think that he can become a pss rushing force inside. Meder is a decent rotation guy, and Brantley flashed talent at times last year. I also really like Trenton Thompson, who we added as an UDFA. I really can't believe that he wasn't drafted, but I seem to recall that some medical around draft time played a part in that.

I totally agree with Coley. NT, because obviously Larry's strong suite is 3T tackle in my predicted line starters.

I think because Coley played like he did made Danny expendable. I agree with Vers above in that we didn't get a fair return in the trade but oh well.

I think we have two defensive tackles because we play a 4-3 and 0 nose tackles because we don't play a 3-4.

Agreed, but semantics wise, some people call the 1 tech a NT.

Emmanuel Ogbah - DL - Browns

The Browns expect DE Emmanuel Ogbah (foot surgery) to be full-go for training camp.

Ogbah spent the final month of 2017 on IR. He was cleared for some offseason reps and is nearing 100 percent. Playing opposite Myles Garrett, Ogbah is a candidate for a third-year leap.

Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer

good news .... we need him to be healthy and locked in

Cleveland Browns Training Camp 2018: WR Preview, Part 3

https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2018/7/14/...-preview-part-3

In Part 3 of our training camp preview on the Cleveland Browns’ wide receivers, we look at the final four receivers on the roster.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

9. Damion Ratley - Undrafted Free Agent Receiver


Height: 6-2 | Weight: 200 lbs | Age: 23
Experience: Rookie | College: Texas A&M

Damion Ratley was an early sixth round draft pick by the Browns this year. During his 3 years at Texas A&M, he only totaled 47 catches. His production this past season really stands out due to his yards per reception, when he caught 30 passes for 694 yards (23.1 YPC) and 6 touchdowns.

According to Lance Zierlein of NFL.com, Ratley is a raw talent who “needs to improve his press release and route running.” Basically, his speed and explosiveness make him an intriguing prospect, but it will be a wait-and-see process regarding whether the rest of his game can come together at the NFL level. Funny enough, at Ratley’s Pro Day in March, it was Johnny Manziel who was throwing him passes:

I think Ratley will be a developmental player who the team would rather keep on the roster than Ricardo Louis. However, he also was not a lock to even be drafted, so there is a good chance that the team can stash him on the practice squad.


10. Evan Berry - Undrafted Free Agent Receiver


Height: 5-11 | Weight: 202 lbs | Age: 22
Experience: Rookie | College: Tennessee

One thing that jumps out about Evan Berry is that he is one of Eric Berry’s twin brothers. If you are expecting him to make the team as a receiver, though, he has a lot of work to do there. It appears as though it was merely the best position label the team could slap on a pure special teamer.

Berry literally did not catch a single pass during his 4 years with Tennessee; in fact, he was a defensive back. Cleveland is listing him as a receiver, and that could have to do with the idea of utilizing him on plays where he can create yards after the catch.

Final Roster Odds: 15%

11. Da’Mari Scott - Undrafted Free Agent Receiver

Height: 6-0 | Weight: 205 lbs | Age: 22
Experience: Rookie | College: Fresno State

Even though they didn’t draft him, Da’Mari Scott was one of the players the Browns brought in to Berea for a pre-draft visit. Dane Brugler of CBS Sports graded him as their 121st wide receiver in this year’s class. When asked to compare himself to an NFL receiver, he chose Steve Smith due to “his aggressiveness and passion for the game.”

Draft Analyst lists Scott’s strengths as “tracking the ball in air, adjusting to errant throws, and using his frame to snatch passes.” His weaknesses include everything after the ball gets in his hands — “average size and speed, and not real creative after the catch.” He also has a history of injuries, but is another player who could try out for a return role. I don’t think Scott will be able to make an impression with everyone else on the roster.

Final Roster Odds: <5%


12. Derrick Willies - Undrafted Free Agent Receiver

Height: 6-4 | Weight: 207 lbs | Age: 23
Experience: Rookie | College: Texas Tech

Derrick Willies was an undrafted free agent the Browns signed, and his size is the main element that stands out about his game. Unfortunately, as our college affiliate explains, Willies has had too many issues with dropped passes:



Can Willies overcome his drops to try to stick around on Cleveland’s practice squad as another developmental prospect? If Cleveland keeps five receivers, I already see four with guaranteed spots, and you figure someone between Rashard Higgins, Ricardo Louis, Damion Ratley, or Jeff Janis will take the fifth spot.

Final Roster Odds: <5%

Ratley is a good PS candidate IMO ... raw but talented from reviews Ive read

Ben McAdoo had Baker Mayfield ranked 6th among '18 QBs, surprised John Dorsey took him No. 1
Updated 3:11 PM; Posted 2:41 PM

Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) talks with receiver Rashard Higgins during mandatory veterans minicamp, June 13, 2018, in Berea. John Kuntz, cleveland.com(John Kuntz)

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By Mary Kay Cabot, cleveland.com
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Add former Giants coach Ben McAdoo to the list of Baker Mayfield's detractors.

McAdoo, who interviewed for the Browns' offensive coordinator vacancy in January, told the New York Post that he had Mayfield ranked sixth among the 2018 quarterbacks, and was surprised that is longtime colleague John Dorsey selected him No. 1 overall.

"I have a lot of respect for how (Dorsey) looks at players,'' McAdoo, who worked with Dorsey for six seasons in Green Bay, told the Post.

But he found this one to be a head-scratcher.

"He's got an edge to him, I like that,'' McAdoo said. "He's gonna lead, they're gonna follow him. I didn't see a lot of pro-style football in his college tape. And if you're short you have to be able to make up for it some way, somehow, and personality doesn't do that."

McAdoo, fired by the Giants with four games to go in the regular season, elaborated on what he didn't like.

"I didn't think he was a great athlete,'' McAdoo said. "This guy is kinda like a pocket quarterback that is short and with small hands, that's what I worry about.''

Like Dorsey, McAdoo spent his unexpected free time scouting the 2018 quarterbacks after he was fired. A noted quarterback expert and former QB coach for the Packers, McAdoo had Mayfield ranked behind Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Sam Darnold, Josh Rosen and Mason Rudolph.

But McAdoo wasn't necessarily sold on any of them.

"There was no Andrew Luck coming out, no guy head and shoulders above everybody else,'' he said.

As for Darnold, the guy most folks thought the Browns should pick?

"I think the kid the Jets drafted has a lot of magic in his game,'' McAdoo said. "I think he's special. He's obviously a talented guy, he can make plays with his feet. I'd just have a hard time drafting a guy in the first round where you don't necessarily like the way he throws.

"The quarterback, his No. 1 job is to pass the football. If I don't like the way he throws the ball, I have a hard time picking him, right?''

It's unknown if McAdoo's views on Mayfield hurt his chances in the job interview for OC. By that time, some in the organization were already sold on Mayfield, and their draft consultant, Scot McCloughan, had him ranked No. 1.

A little more than a week after McAdoo's interview, the Browns hired former Steelers coordinator Todd Haley.

McAdoo joins a group of Mayfield critics that include Fox Sports Radio's Colin Cowherd, who recently called him undraftable.

https://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2018/07/ben_mcadoo_had_baker_mayfield.html

So, MKC. Why exactly do we need to dirt mouth Baker Mayfield at this point? Especially with this guy's opinions? Did you just require the negative slant? And he was attached. I hope Dorsey is right. Just seems lame to intentionally quote so much cynicism at such length if it is your team you attack. I have no use for this brand of baseless criticism. Spare us. Too many solid stories here.

Cleveland Browns Training Camp 2018: TE Preview, Part 1

https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2018/7/16/...-preview-part-1

A look at the first three tight ends on the Browns’ roster heading into training camp

-------------------------------------------------------------


1. David Njoku - Starting Tight End


Height: 6-4 | Weight: 246 lbs | Age: 22
Experience: 2 years | College: Miami

David Njoku had a ton of hype surrounding him in the offseason programs that immediately followed the 2017 NFL Draft. Expectations were sky high that he was going to be making athletic catches left and right. Then training camp came around, and he started to show some consistency issues with his hands.

Njoku’s regular season was a mixed bag. My hope was that he would be able to utilize his athleticism to make tough, contested catches, but there weren’t enough of those plays as a rookie. A lot of it had to do with poor quarterback play, but the best way I can describe my disappointment in him is that I expected his talent to be able to overcome the team’s shortcomings at quarterback. In other words, I put it on Njoku to be a difference maker, and that didn’t come to fruition.

I’m still a big believer in his ability to have a breakout sophomore season. Here is a nice compilation of what Cleveland needs to see from Njoku on a more regular basis:

Final Roster Odds: 100%


2. Seth DeValve - Backup Pass-Catching Tight End


Height: 6-3 | Weight: 245 lbs | Age: 25
Experience: 3 years | College: Princeton

After Duke Johnson, Seth DeValve was the Browns’ leading receiver in 2017 with 33 catches for 395 yards and 1 touchdown (his stats were nearly identical to those of Njoku). This will be an interesting year for DeValve, who has shown the skills to be a legitimate receiving threat from the tight end spot, but who I’m not sure will see the same amount of reps in 2018. I believe David Njoku will be more prominently featured as the receiving threat, and that new blocking tight end Darren Fells will be paired with him.

Browns tight ends coach Greg Seamon did make a point in saying that they feel the team will be able to give DeValve more downfield opportunities this year as opposed to having him run shorter routes so often:



Final Roster Odds: 99%


3. Darren Fells - Backup Blocking Tight End

Height: 6-7 | Weight: 270 lbs | Age: 32
Experience: 5 years | College: California-Irvine

Darren Fells got a late start to his NFL career as he was a college basketball player (you don’t often see players who are 32 years old, but with just 5 years of experience). He was with the Arizona Cardinals from 2014-2016 before starting for the Detroit Lions last year. He is known as a blocking tight end, but has good height (6’7”) to be a red zone target. In his four years in the NFL, he’s totaled 57 catches for 713 yards and 7 touchdowns.

According to Pro Football Focus, Fells is a clear blocking upgrade over Randall Telfer, who is no longer with the club.

Final Roster Odds: 99%

My questions now are on whether Mayfield and Ward hold out. Veterans are scheduled to report to training camp on the 19th and that is when any holdouts officially begin. Has anyone heard anything on contract progress ?

Because Cleveland is blessed with the trashiest "sports journalists" ever. Between MKC and Grossi, it's not tolerable. I actually do like the way Pluto writes things.

What did Mary Kay say? I thought she reported what McAdoo said? Are you guys saying that she not report the news because it is negative?

The Browns websight has had 2 articles in the last 3 months which mentioned Somebody, (Smith) as having a large role in the D-line rotatation this upcoming year.

pppssstttt Players report on the 25th.

It is still a week .. and other teams are reporting this week. Just want both of them signed and in camp on time.

Cleveland Browns 2018 Training Camp: Cornerback preview

https://www.cleveland.com/expo/sports/er...8-training.html

Browns cornerbacks

CLEVELAND, Ohio - While the Browns were giving their quarterback room an extreme offseason makeover, they decided to do some major rearranging in the cornerback room as well.

Last season's Week 1 starters - Jason McCourty and Jamar Taylor - are gone. That duo played the most snaps at cornerback for the Browns in 2017. GM John Dorsey went to work in free agency, signing E.J. Gaines and T.J. Carrie, then used two draft picks on cornerbacks, including fourth overall pick Denzel Ward.

The Browns will be without 2017 fourth-rounder Howard Wilson for the second straight season (knee), and Dorsey missed out on Western Michigan cornerback Sam Beal in the recent supplemental draft. But Browns cornerbacks will still have plenty of new players in key roles when training camp opens July 25.

"I think that John Dorsey and his group have done a very good job of increasing the competition. Competition makes us all better. There is a lot of newness (at cornerback)," defensive coordinator Gregg Williams said during minicamp. "I do think that the competition will be good once we are in camp. We are able to play more physical in camp and out of the shorts-type thing that is going on. It is a fun group."

Here's a look at the key cornerbacks heading into camp:



1. Denzel Ward

The Browns raised some eyebrows during the draft when they selected Ward fourth overall, passing on defensive end Bradley Chubb. Williams sprinkled some sarcasm on his reasoning, noting that "I would have loved to have Chubb, but at this point in time, I do not think that he covers the deep ball well enough as a press corner."

Ward, however, has excelled at corner. He had 15 pass breakups and two interceptions last season at Ohio State. And he established himself during Browns minicamp, leaving little doubt that he'll be a starter this season.

"He is one of the best press guys that I have seen in the last few years at this level," said Williams. "He still has a ways to go, but coming in, he has a base of knowledge that is pretty good."

2. E.J. Gaines

Gaines spent his first three years in the NFL with the Rams, playing for Williams and is now reunited after signing as a free agent this offseason. Pro Football Focus ranked him No. 13 among corners last season with the Buffalo, where he had 59 tackles, an interception and three forced fumbles.

Gaines missed 2015 with a Lisfranc foot injury and hasn't played in more than 11 games the last two seasons, although he's primarily been a starter.

3. T.J. Carrie

Carrie was another free agent signing in the secondary this offseason. He's entering his fifth year in the league and has been a starter (for the Raiders) in two of them.

Carrie started 15 games last season and had nine passes defended and 70 tackles. He has three career interceptions and is likely to battle Gaines for the starting spot opposite Ward.

"I think that our play is going to speak for that. I think that Coach Williams, he is unorthodox in a way that he is always switching the depth chart up. You come into work and you might not be where you are expected to be, but I think that he wants to see how you rise in those situations," Carrie said. "He wants to see which players can handle which situations, which players are able to go against the good receivers and the receivers that we have here - the shifty ones. It is, in a sense that he is so unorthodox that it keeps us all on our P's and Q's, and that we all come out here and try to dominate. I think that is the biggest thing. That is something that we are feeding off of."

4. Briean Boddy-Calhoun

Boddy-Calhoun remains one of Sashi Brown's best finds during his time with the franchise. Claimed off waivers from the Jaguars in 2016, Boddy-Calhoun has started 14 of his 27 games with the Browns, and last season was the team's third-best corner, according to PFF rankings.

The third-year pro has played in multiple roles at corner, and even saw time at safety during minicamp this offseason.

"We were just having a conversation about (versatility) actually just a little while ago as a staff," said defensive backs coach Jerod Kruse. "It is just the ability that you have with those guys like Boddy-Calhoun can be thrown into that mix, too, because of the things that he can do. It just gets you to be very versatile on a week-in and week-out basis and not necessarily tip your hand on, 'Hey, here is exactly how we are going to be each and every week.' I think teams have to prepare for that."

5. Simeon Thomas

Thomas was the Browns' final pick of the 2018 draft, a sixth-rounder out of Louisiana. He is one of a growing list of players with off-the-field issues that Dorsey has drafted. But the fact that he is a member of Dorsey's first draft class with the Browns gives him an advantage over others fighting for roster spots down the depth chart.

6. Others to watch

The Browns claimed Mike Jordan off waivers prior to the 2017 season, and he finished fourth on the team in snaps at cornerback. Playing in 15 games and starting one, Jordan had three passes defended and 13 tackles. He was also a key member of special teams.

Terrance Mitchell, a member of Dorsey's Chiefs the last two seasons, signed as free agent this offseason. He started 11 games over two seasons for the Chiefs, including nine in 2017, when he had four interceptions, 18 passes defended and 47 tackles.

Well, we've heard year in and year out how much she loves every QB that comes to town. How she has some kind of crush on every QB that starts for the Browns. lol Now she's suddenly some kind of hater because she reported what McAdoo said. You couldn't make this stuff up if you tried! lmao

I'm not really down on Mayfield but I like seeing both sides of any coin. The good and the bad. Everyone doesn't see players the same and there's certainly nothing wrong with varying opinions.

Browns 2018 training camp preview: Analyzing the RBs

https://www.clevelandbrowns.com/news/browns-2018-training-camp-preview-analyzing-the-rbs

With the quarterbacks analyzed Monday, we’re moving a step or two backward to the Browns running backs as we continue our position-by-position analysis of the roster heading into 2018 training camp.

THE RUNNING BACKS

Carlos Hyde

Nick Chubb

Duke Johnson Jr.

Matthew Dayes

Dontrell Hilliard

What we know: The Browns brought in two new faces to take the lion’s share of carries in 2018. Hyde, who spent his first four seasons with the 49ers, came to Cleveland shortly after Isaiah Crowell, the team’s most active ball-carrier since 2014, signed with the Jets. Chubb, an old-school, “violent” runner from Georgia, landed with the
Browns early in the second round of the NFL Draft. The returning constant is Johnson, who signed a contract extension during OTAs. The presence of Hyde and Chubb should allow Johnson to thrive as a change-of-pace option who has amassed more receptions (188) and receiving yards (1,741) than any running back since 2015. It’s a triple-threat the Browns hope to utilize early, often and all the way to the finish one year after the team tied for third-best in the NFL in yards per carry (4.5) but ranked 18th in total rushing yards.

Biggest question: How will the Browns distribute the carries between Chubb and Hyde? New running backs coach Freddie Kitchens indicated he’ll ride the hot hand throughout the season. What was clear in June was he hadn’t seen enough to determine who would even take the first carry of the first preseason game. “If they are having success, why would you change? It may be somebody new from week to week,” Kitchens said. “As far as duties with carries and stuff like that, we are nowhere close right now. Things can change. We were talking about it this morning, things can change in a heartbeat. In one play, everything can change. That is the approach we have to take. Go with what you see.” Splitting the carries would be nothing new for Chubb, who shared duties at Georgia with Sony Michel, who was drafted a few picks earlier than him by the Patriots. Hyde, who battled injuries but is coming off his best season yet in the NFL, was the bell cow in San Francisco.

X-Factor: Everyone knows what kind of pass-catching threat the Browns have in Johnson, but there’s optimism in Berea about what Hyde and Chubb can do through the air. Hyde caught just 50 passes in his first three seasons in San Francisco but amassed 57 in 2017. Chubb was sparsely used in Georgia’s passing game, but Cleveland wasted little time getting him involved throughout OTAs and minicamp. Simply put, the Browns believe both downhill runners can make an impact beyond what they do on the ground. “I think they’ve got better hands than a lot of people feel like they have,” Kitchens said. “They didn’t have very many dropped balls in OTAs and minicamp. You evaluate what you see on tape. What I see on tape is they’re consistently catching the football. Now, we’ve got to get them to the point where they get open more. That comes with repetition and them actually doing it.”

Stat tracker: Chubb finished with more than 100 yards in more than half of his 47 games at Georgia. He cleared 200 on three occasions.

Says it all: “Those guys know we’ve got great competition in that room. It starts on an individual basis from within. You’ve got to compete with yourself and we’ve got guys that do that very well. Then compete inside our room and compete offensively and compete as a team. That’s how it’s organized. We don’t have anybody in the room that’s going to back away from competition at all. That’s a good scenario to have.” -- Kitchens

How many were kept at last year’s 53-man cutdown? 3

I didn't want to make a new thread but Darrelle Revis officially retired.

Hate him for his clear money chasing antics, but he was clearly one of the best corners I've seen play. Shoot out to his playing career, especially early on.

When I was in 10th grade my high school BB team played against his in the playoffs ... what a freaking stud and what a career

Dream scenario: Hyde & Chubb both turn into great receivers out of the backfield and allow us to have both on the field on all three downs giving us two options on every play that can block, run between the tackles, or catch it out of the backfield.... along with Njoku, Gordon, and Landry on the field as additional threats at every turn.

It'd be nice if Hyde or Chubb become good catching ... it will help to mask some transparency w/Duke

Hyde's targets were through the roof last year (88) compared to previous years (next highest - 33), is it reasonable to assume he's solid catching the ball? I don't really know...

Won a Super Bowl, made the most $ possible, multiple Pro Bowls.

I'd say he did it right. Wouldn't you like that career? I know, we want them to be more than men, but they're still people and have to do what's best for themselves and family.

Duke added in the slot. Wow!

This would be a defensive nightmare if Njoku holds up his end of the log. Especially in red zone. Like Mack Byner and hands.

Wow.

There was none better in a 3 year span (Revis) Jets totally miss played that among other moves.

Does anyone actually take anything Colon Cowherd says seriously?

Browns reportedly have workout scheduled with former Steelers receiver Eli Rogers

Published: July 21, 2018 - 4:05 PM | Updated: July 21, 2018 - 4:20 PM

https://dawgpounddaily.com/2018/07/21/cleveland-browns-team-unhappy-wide-receivers/

Even though they added Jarvis Landry and Antonio Callaway to a group that already had Josh Gordon and Corey Coleman, the Cleveland Browns are reportedly kicking the tires on wide receiver Eli Rogers

Last year there were issues at wide receiver for the Cleveland Browns. No one can argue that point as you had to get through four players in their pass-catching leaderboard to find a receiver.

Running back Duke Johnson led the team with 74 receptions. Behind him was the tight end duo of Seth DeValve and David Njoku — with 33 and 32 apiece. No. 4 was another running back, Isaiah Crowell and finally, wideouts Ricardo Louis and Rashard Higgins come in with just 27 catches.

That’s really nothing to get excited about and explains why the team spent a draft pick and so much money to lock up Jarvis Landry from the Miami Dolphins in the offseason.

They also took a gamble on rookie Antonio Callaway out of Florida, who has immense talent but a lot of baggage. Speaking of baggage, Josh Gordon is back as well after missing nearly three full years.

Even with all that, the Browns may not be sold on their receivers. Recently, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk said the team is bringing in Eli Rogers for a workout.

“Per a league source, Rogers will work out for the Browns and Raiders this week. PFT has confirmed that Rogers also will work out for the Chiefs.” — Florio, Pro Football Talk

Florio points out that Rogers joining the Browns would reunite him with former offensive coordinator Todd Haley. The two were together in Pittsburgh with the Steelers where Rogers had 66 receptions for 743 yards and four touchdowns in two seasons. Rogers did tear his ACL in the playoffs, but apparently is healthy and now getting looks from many teams.

As for the Browns, his workout is likely an indication that the team isn’t sold on some of their players, most likely Corey Coleman. It seems to be all but certain that the current front office isn’t high on the kid drafted in the first round of the 2016 draft by the previous regime.

Rogers would also indicate that they don’t believe guys like Higgins or Louis give them the depth they need. Rogers could come in and bring a solid player who knows the system and can be relied upon by the current play caller, which is something that can be very valuable.

Look at almost anybody that can help us. We need to throw much better. This might help the OC a great deal on game day and in game prep. It takes some of these guys to beat their old team perhaps. I hope it is a solid pickup.

What’s up with those special teams yo?

I wouldn't mind giving Rogers a try ... we may be looking for a backup slot type WR and he'd fit the mold.

Josh Gordon
Jarvis Landry
Corey Coleman
Antonio Callaway
Eli Rogers
Jeff Janis

PS - Damion Ratley

Cut - Ricardo Louis, Rashard Higgins, etc

Colin does, and from what I can tell, that's enough for him.

He has his own TV show, so obviously more people care about what he says than they do guys like us.

I had a colon Cowherd bypass operation done a while back.

No regrets. Just lame IMO.

I can't believe that this guy is unsigned. I'm shocked that he is available. He's a decent receiver. He can run routes and catch the ball. I'd much prefer him over either Louis or Higgins, and probably over Coleman and Calloway.

Just a shock jock...

Supposedly CJ Board and Ratley, two rookies have impressed the coaches. Don't have a clue on Rodgers can't hurt to take a look and upgrade on our 5th WR if that is the case???

Correction, Board has one year in the NFL and not a rookie.

Haley should be familiar with him so if he's better than some of our others, bring him in! Take all the help we can get while improving our roster.

I used to like Cowherd more, but it seems like he's trying to be too trollish now. Like he's the new Skip Bayless ... picking fights/obsession about certain things

All of these type people like Cowherd are ratings driven.

They make statements to get a rise.

Anybody can make predictions because nobody is accountable for the results. And more importantly nobody knows.

For this year I am quite content to let it play out.

It should be interesting and for once have real entertainment value instead of pure frustration.

WoW! That whole article on an Eli Rogers visit and Not A Word! On Jeff Janis.
Think about it?
Actually, "I" still like Higgans, Louis, and defintetly Coleman much more than what Eli could offer,

but that means nothing.

ONLY because none of us have a show.

ESPN and too many "authorities" and expert analysts. It is all about yelling. L>order screaming about artificial controversies means you know more, care more, yell more loudly, so you must be right. pass (and I do). Don't like his body of work.

j/c:

From Josh Gordon's Twitter:


https://twitter.com/JOSH_GORDONXII/status/1021394768755150849

Statement from John Dorsey:


https://www.clevelandbrowns.com/news/sta...medium=referral

Umm ...... I hope that means he's OK. I mean, to not by in town for the start of camp is a huge concern to me. If he was in some sort of pre-determined program, you would think that it would have taken place before camp.

The recent interest in Eli Rogers might start t make a little more sense, though.

I hope I'm wrong.

uh oh

For anyone suspicious of Josh Gordon's announcement that he won't be at the start of #Browns camp, he's "absolutely not suspended," source said. Continuing to work on his issues, as Gordon said in his tweets.

https://twitter.com/TomPelissero/status/1021400203042189313

Kind of what I was thinking. I "liked" the post because of the information, not because I liked the news.

Well there it is, the annual Josh Gordon won't be at camp news...followed shortly by suspension.. Time to move on and cut bait.

Mary Kay Cabot
&#8207;Verified account @MaryKayCabot
2m2 minutes ago

Updated: #Browns Josh Gordon won't be with the team for the start of camp and #NFL tells http://cleveland.com there is 'no timetable for his return'

...I'm trying to remain optimistic here. This sort of feels different than past suspensions, but also sort of the same.

Hopefully it all works itself out and JG isn't suspended again because that'd really take the air out of the sails.

https://twitter.com/MaryKayCabot/status/1021403784675721216

Browns top rookies Baker Mayfield and Denzel Ward remain unsigned

Cleveland Browns rookies Baker Mayfield and Denzel Ward are two of seven NFL rookies yet to have signed their rookie contracts.
By Michael Hoag@BrownsBeat Jul 23, 2018, 7:30am EDT


Cleveland Browns rookies Baker Mayfield and Denzel Ward are two of seven NFL rookies yet to have signed their rookie contracts. The Browns and their prized pair of top 4 picks are running out of time to avoid holdouts as the team will begin mandatory training camp practices this Thursday. Rookies and veterans are all required to report to Berea on Wednesday.

On Sunday, notable remaining unsigned rookies Saquon Barkley and Mike McGlinchey inked their deals, both including large signing bonuses. In fact, Barkley’s four-year deal is worth $31.2 million with $20 million guaranteed, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. That makes him the fourth-highest paid running back in the NFL before he ever plays a snap.

As WGN Radio’s Adam Hoge pointed out, to this point only rookie linebacker Roquan Smith’s delay is costing his team the rookie’s presence at training camp.


Adam Hoge
&#10004;
@AdamHoge
With Saquon Barkley and Mike McGlinchey signing contracts today, Roquan Smith is now 1 of 7 unsigned NFL draft picks. Five of those are top 8 picks. Smith is the only one who is supposed to be in camp right now, and his holdout is about to reach one week in length. #Bears

12:13 AM - Jul 23, 2018

Here’s a list of the seven remaining rookies have yet to sign:

Browns, QB, Baker Mayfield (Pick No. 1)
Jets, QB, Sam Darnold (Pick No. 3)
Browns, CB, Denzel Ward (Pick No. 4)
Bills, QB, Josh Allen (Pick No. 7)
Bears, LB, Roquan Smith (Pick No. 9)
Steelers, S, Terrell Edmunds (Pick No. 28)
49ers, WR, Dante Pettis (Pick No. 44)
These kinds of contract disputes rarely linger long enough to end up affecting players’ chances to participate in camps, let alone risk them missing any game action. Rookie contracts in the NFL are already “slotted” and pre-determined by the NFL rookie scale, so the main hiccups to these deals are usually related to offset language and signing bonus pay timing.

Offset language refers to conditional contractual terms relating to players retaining their guaranteed rookie salary, even if released, along with any salary they obtain from another team following their release. It usually comes into play when a player is injured or released in the fourth year of their rookie deal, one year before a team must choose whether to pick up the player’s fifth-year team option. Offset language helps teams release players without them being allowed to “double dip,” so to speak.

Several rookies chose to forego hiring an agent this year, which seems to be a growing trend given the cookie-cutter NFL rookie salary negotiation process. You can bet Mayfield and Ward’s agents are working extra hard to prove their worth by getting the most out of the Browns prior to their clients signing on the dotted line.

There’s no need for concern, yet, but there may be some upcoming discussions we’ll need to have in the coming days if these two star rookies remain unsigned as Wednesday draws closer.

https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2018/7/23/...remain-unsigned

Makes one wonder about the impact this may have on Calloway. Also whether he was involved (if it is to do with drugs) or was the initiator....

I thought Mayfield signed a long time ago, 21 mil bonus or something like that, guess I was wrong...

How do we have unsigned players at this point?

Geez, thought we had it right this season, and then there Gordon....damn

It's a little annoying that Baker and Ward aren't signed yet ... I mean, it's slotted and they've had like 3 months

The top 3 QBs taken have not signed...Ward a Top 5 pick also hasn't signed. These guys on top have been set back cause of the Contract given by the Giants to Barkley. Guaranteed $$$ that is what it is all about. Darnold, Allen have not signed either.

https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/patri...lcolm-mitchell/

Malcolm Mitchell a possibility? Probably would cost a 7th round pick

He can’t stay healthy ... no thanks ...

I thought there was a long thread in the Draft forum that was entitled something like: "Baker Mayfield Signs His Contract."

Did someone just make that up?

From memory, someone started a thread under the mistaken impression that an article discussing a likely contract was announcing a contract. About the 3rd or 4th post in, the poster admitted his mistake but was unable to delete the thread.

Thanks. I thought that was a big thread, but I didn't really follow it.

With the new language for rookie contracts, I haven't worried too much about guys getting signed.

Off-set language is likely a hold up for the top part of the draft.

Browns hosting CB Bashaud Breeland on Friday, WR Eli Rogers and CB Jude Adjei-Barimah today for free agent visits


CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Former Redskins cornerback Brashaud Breeland will make a free agent visit to the Browns on Friday, the second day of training camp, a league source confirmed.

Rob Demosky of ESPN.com first reported the visit.

Breeland has visited the Raiders and Chiefs, and is also set to visit the Colts.

The Browns are also hosting former Steelers receiver Eli Rogers today, as previously reported, and former Bucs corner Jude Adjei-Barimah's previously reported workout is also today, a source confirmed.

The Browns had interest in Breeland in free agency in March, but he signed a three-year deal with the Panthers worth $24 million, including $11 million guaranteed.

However, the contract was voided when Breeland, 26, cut his heel in the Dominican Republic in a collision with a golf cart, and the wound required a skin graft. It became infected, and he failed the Panthers physical.

By that time, the Browns had moved on and signed free agents such as T.J. Carrie, E.J. Gaines and Terrance Mitchell.

But it's clear the Browns are still in the market for good cornerbacks. Earlier this month, they bid on Western Michigan's Sam Beal in the supplemental draft, but he was selected by the Giants in the third round, one spot ahead of where the Browns may have landed him.

Breeland, a fourth-round pick of the Redskins out of Clemson, started 58 of 60 games in Washington, recording 211 tackles, seven forced fumbles and eight interceptions.

No. 4 overall pick Denzel Ward will start right away at one of the cornerback spots, but the other job is still up for grabs.

The Browns are also hosting free agent receiver Rogers for a free agent visit today, one day after Josh Gordon announced on Twitter that he won't be with the team at the start of training camp to focus on his health and treatment plan.

Rogers, 25, spent the past three seasons with the Steelers, where he played for current Browns offensive coordinator Todd Haley. Rogers, who suffered a torn ACL in the playoff loss to the Jaguars, knows the system well and can step right in and play.

https://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2018/07/bashaud_breeland_visiting_the.html

It was a big thread, full of arguments about Mayfield. I found the post (#1449216) where the poster admitted his mistake, it was actually on the 2nd page of posts. By then the thread had a life of it's own.

Looks like we have a couple CB's coming in addition to Rogers, I like Breeland and I remember when we were kicking the tires in FA..

https://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.s...art_river_index

I am all for continuing to improve any and every position on the team that we can.

If healthy, I like Breeland too. He can flat out play.

I like Breeland too, maybe he's not healthy (or wasn't) and teams didn't sign him.

I'd give him a shot.

He had some kind of foot injury (slice wound) that made teams nervous.

+ a subsequent infection on said cut/injury. He must not be a go, if he's still unsigned. Didn't that injury and the subsequent contract void happen a little while ago?

thanks

j/c

Seems ridiculous to not have everyone signed by camp in the modern NFL but what do I know?

WARD is the one that I am most concerned about right now. Wrap it up! He's supposed to be starting day 1.

j/c

My understanding was he cut his foot, the wound became infected leading to a skin graft. That tells me the infection was significant, enough to have to cut away skin to prevent further damage. Why else would a skin graft be needed. There is a possibility that it could permanently affect the way he uses that foot, hence the hesitancy of teams to sign him until he can prove otherwise.

Who we talking about here Ytown???

Bashaud Breeland

Yep.

How clairvoyant...


Link

Eli Rogers Is re-signing with the Steelers on a 1-year deal, per source. More WR talent and depth for Pittsburgh.

https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1022145194941210626

Chad Thomas, Desmond Harrison will start on PUP, Ricardo Louis done for year with neck injury. Jabrill Peppers has a groin injury and may also start on PUP per Hue Jackson

The #Browns have agreed to terms with No. 4 pick CB Denzel Ward on his four-year rookie contract. That’s all of them.

The Cleveland Browns and 2018 No. 4 overall draft pick Denzel Ward have agreed to terms on his rookie contract, general manager John Dorsey announced Wednesday. NFL.Com

GM John Dorsey says he knows Dez Bryant and he and his staff have talked about (adding) him. "I look at Dez as a very passionate, competitive person."

I'd rather have a suspended JG again than Dez. I absolutely want nothing to do with him.

Only way i add Dez is with a true incentive contract. Now the one positive is that Hue can deal with his personality. Hue relates well to everyone and the troubled guys, he has a knack for building a relationship with them, if they are willing to work. I dont like Dez but he will work.

Peppers better heal fast if he wants to win a starting spot imo.

Ricardo Louis done for the year ... never heard about Peppers injury til now

Good thing we have depth this year.

Hue Jackson on Corey Coleman stepping into the starting role at receiver opposite Jarvis Landry with Josh Gordon away from the team: "We have a guy who's here that's heading into year three that needs to go out and play well. So we'll stick Corey over there and we'll keep going."


Pat McManamon, ESPN Staff Writer
http://www.espn.com/espn/now?nowId=21-41024660-4

Not sure this is a ringing endorsement...

yeah, it's more of an indictment

That makes the wide receiver picture a little more clear. Obviously it means a guy like Jeff Janis is more likely to make the team.

Head Coach Hue Jackson and General Manager John Dorsey addressed the media on July 25, 2018 to open 2018 Training Camp.

Well, easy peasy direction here for him. Let's go shop!

Is Rogers still available?

Story they want to write. All about JG as a player not here, a nonexistent QB battle\controversy, and other tripe.

Hope we shock some folks.

Hue Jackson, John Dorsey pre-camp press conference - 7/25

https://www.clevelandbrowns.com/news/hue-jackson-john-dorsey-pre-camp-press-conference-7-25


Opening statement:

Dorsey: “Good afternoon, everybody. As you can see, Hue has done a little shopping this summer and he found himself a grey sweatshirt. It is pretty good, though. Your hat, too. I like your hat. I just wanted to tell you all that we are very excited for the 2018 training camp. We are excited to be back here, we have been away for a month. Tony (Grossi), it is even good to see you back here, too. It is the start of something. Hopefully, these guys will pick up where they left off, with regards to OTAs and minicamp and building on those little things that it is going to take to achieve success. Before we get any farther, I do want to say one thing. We have made a classification that we are going to put (WR) Josh Gordon as an NFI. On that, we have designated that he is a Did Not Report player. That just helps me within the system, working within the system. Going with that, I am going to respect his privacy. Like I said, I am going to respect the privacy of Josh while he is away from the team, because I think that his overall health and his well-being is what is really important here now. I get that football is secondary. Our focus should be on the entire football team and the 2018 season.

Also, I want to let you all know that the 2018 draft class is now officially done. We have come to an agreement with (DB) Denzel Ward and his representatives. That will be executed here pretty soon. Again, that will be moving forward. That is important, too, because those guys want to be here and they want to compete. That is all I have. Coach, I am sure, may have something.”

Jackson:“Yes I do. First, I want to step back and give or condolences to the Sparano family. Tony and I worked together at the Washington Redskins, and what a tremendous football coach and person. He will be missed. Unfortunate. And we are thinking of him.


Obviously, it is a very excited time for our football team. I think that any time you get to training camp and have all of your draft class signed and ready to go, it is exciting. We have a lot of work to do – a ton of work to do – and I think that we all get that. Our players are very eager to get going. We will have a great meeting tonight to get ready for tomorrow. But again, I want everybody, especially our fans, to really see what our players do on a daily basis; preparing, the hard work that is being put into this for them, so that they can go out and do what they need to do to be a better football team. Obviously, our fans want results and that is what we are striving for. We are here to win. As I have said before, from the first day that I came here, we are going to do everything we can to put a winning product on the field.

From a medical standpoint, let’s just get this out of the way right now. (DL) Chad Thomas will start off on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform), (OL) Desmond Harrison will start off on the PUP. (WR) Ricardo Louis, as you guys know, did not do a lot in the spring because of his neck. As a matter of fact, he will be ruled out for the rest of the year this year. That is kind of where that is. (DB) Jabrill Peppers has a little groin sprain, and will probably start off on the PUP, as well. We will get into that later, but I just wanted to make sure that we are all clear on all of the injuries and all of the things that are happening that way.”

On if there is any ‘clarity’ on when WR Josh Gordon will return to the team:

Dorsey: “I really do not. We will see what happens here, but I think that the most important thing for us is to concentrate on the 2018 season and training camp moving forward and talking about those guys that are here. Right now, I think that the most important thing for Josh is to continue what he is doing right now. At the end of the day, it is about this person getting better. That is what we are all hoping for here.”

On if the team expects to have Gordon back at some point in the 2018 season:


Dorsey: “Absolutely.”

On if the receiving corps will be adjusted, due to the absence of Gordon and Louis:

Dorsey: “Our personnel department will do its due diligence and take in everything – turn over every stone possible. We will look at all options. We will talk and have free discussion about the possibilities here. We have two roster spots that we can fill. The question is, do I want to use it at the receiver position with the legs? Or the stress points of training camp, as well all know, are the receivers and corners. Do we add an additional corner? These are things that we will add in our discussions. Let’s see what happens as the days go forward. I will say this, I am going to have a group of receivers in here working out eventually, so we will see what happens.”

On ‘counting on’ Gordon:

Dorsey: “I made a statement back in the winter. Josh is 100-percent committed to the Cleveland Browns and the Cleveland Browns are 100-percent committed to him. He has had a great offseason. He has had great training. Let’s just see what happens here. All I care about is respecting his privacy and let’s see him move forward.”


On the impact of Gordon’s absence impacting the group:

Jackson: “Obviously, we would like to have all of our players here. At the same time, we know that things do come up. As a staff, we are prepared for anything and everything. I think in my three years here, I have seen it all. I am not surprised by anything that can happen. I think that if we make it more than what it is – again, we are talking about a young man who is doing everything he can to put himself in the best position to be better in his life and I think that is great for Josh. At the same time, we have a football team to get ready. That is what we are going to do. All we can really worry about is the guys that are here. Coach the guys that are here and get them better. When Josh is ready to return, he will return.”

On not rushing to play QB Baker Mayfield right away:

Jackson: “I think that John has done a great job of getting us veteran players that have won games in the National Football League. If you look at our rooms over the last couple of years, we have had some guys that have not won many games in the National Football League. I think that this is a tough league at that position. There is no question that we have drafted Baker Mayfield for a reason and I think that he is the future of this franchise. But (QB) Tyrod Taylor has demonstrated all offseason what he has needed to show me and the staff to be the starter. Baker Mayfield has worked his tail off. He has a lot of work to do. He has got to learn this league and understand it better. We are not putting a ceiling on anything, but at the same time, we feel very comfortable with our room, exactly how it is made up, with a couple of veteran players and a young, very talented, emerging player. We feel good about where we are.”

Dorsey: “I think that each one of us embraces competition. We love competition. It brings out the best in us. To play quarterback in the National Football League is hard, and I think that we have stated all along that this is for the long well-being for not only the player, but for the organization, as well. He (Mayfield) will have the chance to see defenses and offenses. The nuances are very complicated. Very few guys can walk in there as a rookie and actually control, move forward and have a success at a high degree of level. So, why not for the betterment of the organization and for the player, let him learn from true professionals. We have said that this is Tyrod Taylor’s team. He has taken a team to the playoffs. He has demonstrated that, you know what, he is our starter. Then, you have (QB) Drew Stanton in there. Drew is a veteran leader who has been through these things. He is going to be able to not only help Tyrod and help Baker, but he is going to help that whole room. That is kind of the plan that we have put together. This is a marathon, not a sprint.”


On where Baker Mayfield is on the depth chart:

Jackson: “I do not even want to get into whether he is two or three, or any of that. He is going to get reps. One of my jobs and the staff’s job is to make sure that we are developing him and making sure that he starts to understand the National Football League. I do not think that it matters about number, or what this is – two, three – any of that. Baker Mayfield will get reps and get better as a football player for the Cleveland Browns.”

On what makes this Gordon instance different than one’s prior:

Jackson: “Because I think that he has done everything that we have asked him to do. When I look at this situation, and I think that is has been said by everybody, he is doing everything that he can to prevent future issues. This is a different situation in my mind. As you guys said, the league said that there are no issues that way. I think that this is a young man that has put himself into a positon to be better for himself, for the team and for the organization. I feel pretty good about it.”

On when Gordon will be back, in relation to the term ‘soon’ that Gordon mentioned in his announcement:


Dorsey: “I do not know here yet. Soon could mean many things; soon could mean a month, soon could mean three days. It is soon. I think that when we get to that point when he decides to come back, I think that you embrace him, see where he is and move forward. See where he is physically, in terms of conditioning and being ready to play football. Then, we will see what it is. Who knows when it could be? It could be 10 days, it could be 20 days, it could be 30 days.”

On if Jackson has spoken with Gordon directly recently:

Jackson: “I have not. I have done everything that I can to support him from afar and let him do what he needs to do. I think that is what is important. But, he knows that our lines are open for communication at any time.”

On who will be the starting receiver opposite of WR Jarvis Landry:

Jackson: “Well, obviously, (WR) Corey Coleman. We have a guy that is here and heading into year three and that needs to go out and play well. We will stick Corey in there and keep going.”


On the possibility of acquiring free agent Dez Bryant:

Dorsey: “I have had a chance to be around Dez, I have known Dez. I had a chance – when he was down in Lufkin, Texas – I was actually at his workout and had a chance to meet him. I know the kind of person that he is and what makes him. He is a very talented player. Have we had discussions about Dez Bryant? Yeah. That is natural. You can have discussions like that. Now, we will see what comes to fruition the next couple of days, but we’v talk about it. You have to talk about these things. I have talked about a lot of things. There have been a whole list of players that we have talked about as a staff.”

On if Bryant would fit in with the organization:

Dorsey: “I look at Dez as a very competitive, passionate person. That is how I look at Dez Bryant.”

On the expectations of the 2018 team:


Dorsey: “As I look at this team – I have sat and watched them at OTAs, I have sat and watched them at minicamp – I have watched them diligently come together with a single objective of trying to overcome certain obstacles. Moving forward, you have to have that type of mindset. Moving forward, the whole key to training camp is going to be come to work every day, work on the little things that will get you better. I have always said, you come in as teammates and you are going to leave as family. Because that way, if you have a single-minded purpose with single goals, you will understand how to get things. As the season goes along – you know I have always lived by the mantra of 1-0, go 1-0 – and let’s be competitive week in and week out. Let’s be competitive in the AFC North. That is how I look at things. There is talent here. There is talent here and now they have to come together and understand the task at hand.”

On getting past the ‘baggage’ of years past:

Jackson: “I think that you just said it. I think that it is not the same team. I think that John and his team did a tremendous job of adding key pieces to our football team. This is a competitive football team throughout. I think that at every position, there is some competition, which ultimately makes your football team better. I know that we talk about the past quite a bit, but this is not the same team that is any of those records that you are talking about, from the past. This team is going to have to form its own identity – create its own identity by how we work, how we practice. Like I said when I started, we have a lot of work to do ahead of us as a football staff and as a team and I think that we get that. I think that everybody, and I see our players walk into this building, they are very eager and excited about putting the past behind us."

Dorsey: “Every team is distinctly different, year in and year out. You have seen it many of times. With that being said, this is going to be a good team moving forward.”

On what went into putting Taylor as the No. 1 QB:


Jackson: “I think that you have a guy that has played seven seasons in the National Football League and has seen the defenses. As John said earlier, how defenses work and how they come at quarterbacks and all of the different situations that happen in a football game, Tyrod Taylor has dealt with, where Baker has not. Let’s just be honest, you are talking about seven years to a guy that is a rookie. You would hope that a veteran player of Tyrod’s caliber, with his talent and ability – which, and again, we keep talking about what he has done in Buffalo, because obviously, we want him to do that here. That he should have a leg up. If we have done our homework right, which we have. John, like I said, his group did a great job for us of acquiring Tyrod Taylor for a reason, for him to be the starting quarterback. And then, we took a very young player, who we think is going to be a tremendous player, but he needs time. He is not ready to walk out there right now and play. That is OK. We did not bring him here for that. We brought him here because he is talented. We think that he is the future of this organization. We are going to do everything we can to develop him as we go through training camp and the preseason and during the season. Put him into a position that when he does need to play and when he is ready to play, he will walk out there and play well.”

On if marking Gordon as a ‘did not report’ makes a roster spot available:

Dorsey: “Correct.”

On Taylor getting first-team reps, and the challenge with Mayfield:

Jackson: “Tyrod Taylor is the starter. I don’t envision any situation where all of a sudden he is getting a bunch first team reps – unless, god-forbid, something happens. But at the same time, there might be a day – please no one hold me to it – a day where Tyrod, all of a sudden, maybe does not go, and Baker’s out there and people go, ‘Oh my gosh.’ It would not be that. Let’s not turn that into now he is going to be the starter. That is not what it is. I am committed to making this work the way we have it, because I feel it’s best for the organization and best for the player. If the players supersedes that, it will show itself. You guys will know probably faster than we all do, because you guys look at it that way. Trust me, I think we’re in a really, really good place right now.”

On Jackson’s approach to this upcoming camp, from a coaching standpoint:

Jackson: “Well, my role has changed. I have now taken on the ‘CEO’ aspect of it. I kind of oversee it all. That was tough – being very honest with you – when you have to step away from something you love doing. But as I said earlier, it is not about personal wins for me anymore. I have done all of that. It’s about organizational wins. I brought (offensive coordinator) Todd Haley here for a reason, to help this organization get to winning. To me, when you look at it from that standpoint, I hope we all get it. My job is to coach the team. Offense, defense and special teams, I am going to be involved in all of that. Not that I am going to be far from the offense, I am going to help where I can. I will stick my nose in places maybe I should not, but that’s just part of it. I feel good about what I was able to do in the spring – the help I could give, whether it was with the defense, offense or special teams – and I feel I will be even better when we head into training camp that way.”

On what Jackson has had to manage the past two seasons as head coach:

Dorsey: “I do. I have seen that. It’s an exercise in head coaching and what a head coach does. He is going to lead men. He is going to lead the organization in this thing. He is going to create that daily message, day in and day out. As this thing moves forward, the one thing I have always admired, in the 4 weeks that I was here, is how hard those players played for Hue when he was here, because they trusted him. You could see that. To me, that is the overarching thing; as long as the goals are there and the players understand what the expectations are from a head coach, that gives him a lot of opportunity to do different angles and motivate guys. That is it.”

On if they are sure that Gordon is not ‘in jeopardy of being suspended’:

Dorsey: “As I look at this thing, what we are going to do here is, again, I am going to respect Josh’s privacy. I will continue to say that and let him do what he has to do moving forward. Then when he comes back, we will embrace him. That is how we are going to do it.”

On the level of confidence in Gordon returning:

Dorsey: “I think the best thing right now is for Josh – his well-being – to be where he is. I think we can all respect that privacy part of it for him.”

On what needed to be changed over the offseason for the team:

Dorsey: “I think, when we sat down as a group – I think the first thing when you being to make change like this as an organization – is you have to have a plan. You have to plan, small, large and in different segments of the months moving forward. Where it first starts is having a personal staff sitting there and breaking the team down. Having the coaching staff breaking the team down. Then, it is the head coach and myself coming together in a meeting and say we have to fix this, this, this and this. Then, we begin to do an overarching plan. Then, what type of guys do you want in that locker room? That is part of the overarching plan, too. Then, you move forward. And, you are lucky enough you can pull some trades off with some guys and you have to identify which positions need to be fixed. How do you go about acquiring them? And once you’ve traded some players and addressed unrestricted free agency, then you have to go back and recalibrate from an overall team building standpoint. Then, you have to see how you attack it in the draft. That way, you are not going to force your hand in the draft to do certain things.”

On Gordon’s standing with the league:

Dorsey: “Well, I respect what Josh is doing. So therefore, what I am going to do is respect his privacy. That is what I am going to do. But I know this, for where he is, I think he is doing good.”

On if Dorsey has ‘been assured of anything’ by the league:

Dorsey: “Again, I am just going to tell you that I am going to respect Josh’s privacy.”

On the LT competition, and OL Greg Robinson:

Jackson: “I kind of think John kind of addressed that earlier. We are always looking to get our football team better. Again, here is a former player that was the second player drafted, that has an opportunity to come here and compete at a spot where we have some players. Obviously, Shon is going to walk out there first, but you have to have competition. As I said earlier, that is what is going to make our football team better, to have competition throughout. Greg is going to get an opportunity to come in here and be the best version of himself and show he can do the job. Let’s compete.”

On the similarities between Dorsey’s beginning in Kansas City, and where the Browns are now:

Dorsey: “The similarities are there, only because of the respective records that have occurred. From a talent perspective, the number of fills and change outs you had to do, the numbers were kind of similar in that regard. From the trade component, it was close but it was not identical. Every team is completely different in how you go about crafting and developing a team. I think what it is, it is an organizational vision moving forward. That starts with the head coach and the general manager, and then you have to talk through ownership with it to make sure it is going down the right path. I think, all in all, I think we have done a really good job of trying to move this thing forward. That is where we are."

On if the ‘pressure’ is on Jackson now:

Jackson: “My job is to mold it together. Absolutely. You just said it.”

Dorsey: “You know how I look at it? I look at it this way; it’s my job to acquire the chess pieces, and let him go play the game of chess. He will do a pretty good job of it.

On if there will be any position, in particular, ‘stacked’ on the final roster:

Dorsey: “No. I think what we are going to do, we are going to sit as a staff. We are going to begin to meet, not only as a personnel staff, but as a coaching staff, and begin to talk through the roster. See where we are with competitiveness. When we get to the 53, depart discussion of it, let’s see and have an open discussion. Let’s see who truly should be on the 53-man roster.”

On balancing the competition level, with the comradery of the team:

Jackson: “This is something they have been doing all their lives. I do not think anything changes that way. I mean it is a brotherhood, period. These guys are understanding that they are competing for jobs, and I think they all respect each other that way.”

On if there have been discussions about possibly not bringing Gordon back:

Jackson: “I think John said it earlier. We know where we are. We have a pretty good feel for where Josh is. We respect Josh’s privacy. We are just going to continue to move forward. I think this football team knows Josh, respects Josh, knows where he is and what he’s dealing with and can sympathize with that. Eager to get him back, if we have an opportunity to, so we will just go from there.”

Dorsey: “This is the 2018 training camp. There have been a lot of things that have been happening in Cleveland. Let’s see exactly what this team is all about. That is what you want to get excited about. I think the fans are excited to see what kind of team we have moving forward, too. That is the day-to-day grind, I want to see what that’s all about.”

On guys who ended minicamp not working: Jamie Collins and Antonio Callaway:

Jackson: “Those guys will all be back. Yes, sir. They are fine.”

On Louis and if it is career threatening:

Jackson: “It was a neck injury. He had surgery. And so, we will just go from there. We know this year that he is definitely out.”

On if it happened last season:

Jackson: “Probably happened during the season, yes. Probably late. Way late. Then, there were some things that started to show up in the offseason and we kept working through it, trying to get him back, and it just did not work that way. We moved further and then things did not work right. And this is where we are today.”

On what positions Dorsey wanted to look at before free agency:

Dorsey: “It is quite obvious. You look at the secondary. That is first and foremost. I think we addressed the receiver position. I think we addressed some of the offensive line positions. I think we addressed the tight end position for a reason – tried to get some pass rush in there with (OL) Chris Hubbard.”

On the secondary:

Dorsey: “After you sit and listen to the head coach talk about what he thinks we need, and then you talk to the defensive coordinator and see what he thinks he needs at that time – it was obvious that we needed some players here and that is why we went down the path we did.”

On if this is the ‘Hue Jackson-type’ team he envisioned:

Jackson: “I do. And again, I will go on record as saying that I think what John did when he walked in here with his personnel guys, I think it is unbelievable. I am being very honest. I am not trying to make him feel good. I mean, he totally changed our football team. We have players in the locker room that I think the other players feel really good about and they are excited about playing with them. Now what they have to do as a group, they have to go practice well. We have to get better, just a little bit better, each and every day. My goal is to put the identity on this football team that I have always wanted to with a coaching staff and with a personal staff together. And I think that is where we are headed as a group. I think this is truly what it is all about and it starts today. We are looking forward to it.

Joe Thomas: Austin Corbett is a guard, not a tackle
By Nick Shook
Around The NFL Writer

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000...rd-not-a-tackle


I was wrong.

Last week, in the return (!) of Behind the Offensive Line, we broke down some key offensive line battles across the league. I mentioned how the Browns would approach replacing future Hall of Famer Joe Thomas. Being a big believer in guards with potential, I listed No. 33 pick Austin Corbett as a contender for the left tackle position with veteran Shon Coleman.

Then I sat down with Thomas and chatted about his career, offensive line play and the situation at his old post in Cleveland.

Joe Thomas is here to tell you and I that I was wrong.

"I can say confidently that I don't think Austin Corbett is going to play tackle in the NFL," Thomas told me Tuesday. "I got to spend all of spring there watching film and practicing and coaching him up and he's certainly a guard or a center."

Thomas would very obviously know. He not only has a legendary resume, but also the up-close-and-personal experience with the aforementioned Corbett. And he quickly pointed out where I was wrong.

First, I wrote this:

While Bitonio slid to guard upon arrival to the NFL, Corbett will likely remain at tackle, thanks to Cleveland having its interior line solidified with Bitonio, J.C. Tretter and Kevin Zeitler. He's a solid blocker in all facets and plays with a streak of violence necessary to succeed in the tougher divisions of the NFL (like the AFC North), but doesn't quite have the measurables (length, height) that make him a natural tackle. He'll have to make up for that with his technical skill, and he'll have a good role model lining up next to him in Bitonio -- if he can beat out Coleman.

Turns out, Thomas sees Corbett as the least likely to grab the job, and looks to who he used to line up alongside as the likely choice to make a switch.

"I think what the Austin Corbett pick says is they felt it was really good value and they could develop him for the future depending on what happens," Thomas explained. "More good linemen is always a good thing and they felt that where they were in the draft was really good value. I agree. I think Austin is going to be a really good player.

"I think he's got a really good situation right now where he can grow and maybe become the center of the future, or depending on what they do with Joel (Bitonio), if they try to move Joel to tackle, they could put Austin at guard. But yeah, Joel would be the first guy out at tackle, and then they would probably put Austin or Spencer Drango at guard."

Thomas and I fell back in line toward the end of that analysis, and moved into near lockstep with his next bit of explanation:

"[This is based on] his skill set," Thomas said. "Austin, God bless him, is not a tackle. He does not have the speed that you need to be able to block edge rushers. He does [have heavy feet].

"I think he's very well-suited for guard, for center, but he's not really tall or lanky. He's not a basketball player. I think typically you want your tackles to be kind of former basketball players."

By basketball players, Thomas means guys who are agile in multiple directions -- like Thomas was.

So what does this battle in Cleveland become? One of adjustment, perhaps. Bitonio played tackle at Nevada, but hasn't done so since he reached the NFL. He's become one of the league's best guards rather quickly in that time, which lends encouragement to the thought he might be able to adjust quicker than most. And there's still Coleman, though Thomas and I didn't talk much about him, and Spencer Drango, who enters the conversation if the Browns are moving a starting guard out wide.

It's also intriguing in the long term, because it adds a layer of foresight to GM John Dorsey's draft strategy. While many (including this guy) were fooled into thinking it was about tackle, it might have been about the interior all along.

tough for me to imagine that Corbett won't start, but it may be the case

Senior analysts Steve Palazzolo and Mike Renner take a look at the Cleveland Browns as they head into training camp. They discuss the additions of both Tyrod Taylor and Baker Mayfield, Cleveland's new-look secondary, and the pass rushers opposite Myles Garret. Steve and Mike also dive into key positional battles to look for heading into training camp.

He is going to start. It just may not be game 1.


No big deal.

start where though is my question?

Thank you for all the informative articles.

A couple of things stood out for me:



and



Several posters have tried to paint a very different picture, but I truly think that these two guys respect one another and are perhaps the first duo to really work together since our rebirth.

That would be huge for the Browns if it is true. The organization has been burdened w/in-house dysfunction for far too long and that has adversely affected the team.

I get that some won't be happy about this situation, but I think it's best for the Browns and I have some confidence that brighter days are ahead.

Dez Bryant just commented on Jarvis Landry's instagram asking him 'who is wearing #11 that way?'

Then said 'I'm just asking a question lol'

hmm

What!!!

I totally agree with your take on this. Even if it's no more than, 'We're stuck with each other so we may as well make the best of it', at least there's not infighting.

But I think it's more than that. I believe there's a mutual respect that can work towards the positive for the organization. I'm looking forward to this season, understanding that a lot of things have to gel to win games.

I can't prove it, but I have watched the body language of both men when they are around each other and I don't think they are faking it w/their words. I think they genuinely like to talk football together and respect one another's opinions.

This would be so great if it's really true. We haven't had that since our rebirth, bro.

I think Hues body language changes depending on who he is with.



I hope it works with him, but I don't have high expectations.



I guess we will know 6 games in.

basically Louis NFL career is over.
even if he is healthy next year who wants a WR that has zero TDs
and can run 3 routes of the route tree
i say no.to Dez Bryant.
hes still unsigned for a reason.
why hasnt a WR starved club like the Ravens Colts or Bills signed him?
if Bryant is signed then when Gordon gets back who do you cut?
Bryant takes away reps from younger kids who need the reps more than him

I read something earlier today while I was researching another topic [I think it was EJ Gains] that Dez said he didn't want to play for the Bills or other teams that were non-contenders. I just saw the headline and did not read the article.

That might answer your question.

whats funny is that contending teams like the Cheifs
Saints and Pats who.could use a solid vet at WR want no part of him.

I don't know if it is "funny," but okay.

funny as a figure of speech. wasnt pertaining to
funny as like a clown or comic.

The Ravens did want to sign him, but Dez supposedly wanted a single year prove it contract, while Ravens wanted a multi year. I think Dez wants to stay in the NFC, if possible.

j/c

I agree about Louis: his career is basically over now

I hope this thread is as close as Dez gets to being a brown ... not a fan ...

Gordon will be back we don't need Dez

I saw that as well. At least as of now it doesn't look like any of the contenders want him, though if I had to guess, he will end up with the Pats.

IMHO, he will be out of the league, may be not game 1,but don't think he will make it through a whole season without being suspended and ending this soap opera.

Fool me once its one me, if they fool me how many times now, it means that I'm a fool.

Just end this crap and cut Gordon, let him go flash somewhere else. We are are crap team, we don't need this on top.

Browns are trying out Bengals’ free-agent CB Adam Jones on Friday, per source.

https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1022483115829288960

Oof. Just say no!

Hopefully this is just a courtesy workout. I don’t see how he makes the team and he’d just be taking a roster spot from a young guy that needs to develop.

Not good news to JP....

I’m not real comftorable with this side of Dorsey ... guess i got some adjusting to do as it is who Dorsey is ...

Football is a churn and burn business.

You can't just get young guys and plan for the future.

When you look around the NFL each year the roster turnover is incredible. The days of having an all star team that came up through the organization and stayed are long gone.

Teams pick up guys knowing they want them only for a year to fill a gap.

Yes there is a long term plan for some players at some positions. But if you want to win this year at times you are going to have guys like Adam Jones. He is a veteran guy who knows the game. His time in the NFL is close to over.

But if you have a hole that the GM feels has to closed. You bring a guy in like Jones. You work him out and determine if he can help for a year.

Pat's do it all the time.

Dorsey wants to win right now. But in the end ultimately he will be judged on his draft decisions.

That will come at the end of next year.

Oh my ... I wasn’t very clear and because of that u completely misunderstood my post ...

I love he looks under every rock ... love it .. hes a pro ... thats what good pros do ...

I was reffering to Dorsey not caring one little bit about a players backround ... kicking the tires on Pac-Man is just the latest example .. I wouldn’t have wanted him on my team back when he could ball ... not the kind of person I want to be associated with ..

Thats what i meant dawg ... and thats the part i need to get used to ... them helping the team win and keeping there noses clean sure would go along ass way in the getting used to it aspect ...

pacman Jones ... I thought he was signed elsewhere ... so we could end up adding he and Dez this week

Might as well pick up Ray Rice while we're at it.

Oh Crapola...just when I was really hoping we were going to sign him...lol oh well at least that tells me we weren't desperate or anything and made him an offer that he couldn't refuse. Just another variable telling me we are ok with Gordon he will be back in a few...don't know what few weeks? ...

Nate Ulrich
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O-line notes: Shon Coleman first-team LT, Greg Robinson second-team LT and rookie Austin Corbett second-team LG in team drills.

Fred Greetham
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#Browns DL getting first reps were Jamie Meder and Trevon Coley. TJ Carrie at cornerback.

4:48 PM - 26 Jul 2018

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#Browns Jabrill Peppers (groin), DL Chad Thomas (sports hernia) & OL Desmond Harrison all on PUP list on side with trainers.(ankle)

Ken Carman
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So far Coleman and Fells aren’t even giving Myles Garrett a good look today.

Injury notes: Rookie WR Damion Ratley was checked by athletic trainer on side and is riding off field in cart. Seems bothered by a leg. Earlier, TE Devon Cajuste left practice accompanied by athletic trainers. #Browns

Nate Ulrich
@bynateulrich

DL Caleb Brantley also carted off the field today #Browns

Daryl Ruiter
@RuiterWrongFan

I hope all those who got dinged today are back soon, but I really think that Brantley will be an important part of the DL rotation this season, so I hope he's back soon.

#Browns coach Hue Jackson said DT Caleb Brantley left practice with calf issue, he thinks cramps more than anything. Hue said WR Damion Ratley hurt a hip.

Nate Ulrich
@bynateulrich

Dez, Jones... are we calling Devone Bess again now too? Gz horrible.

“He’s going against Myles Garret which isn’t a lot of fun...I don’t think he was a liability over there” - Hue Jackson on Shon Coleman at LT today

Daryl Ruiter
@RuiterWrongFan


Not much of an endorsement..Hopefully he gets better when the pads come on

Talk to me full suit and loaded for real. Heard of camp arms, but we need camp medics or trainers! Do they get paid piecework? Hope we survive TC!

Go Browns!

hoping brantley is just cramps

NFL arrest:

http://nflarrest.com/player/Adam%20Jones/

I was reading that Hue liked Adam when the two were in Cincy.


Dorsey said no stone would be unturned. I suppose he is right because that might be the last stone I turned.


Now I am a bit concerned. The feeling is we really helped the corner position, yet we are still seeking help.

It makes me wonder if some of these guys we just signed looked really, really bad in the off season programs?

I have always been really big on DB play. Next to QB, no position is more important....a few might be tied. Drafting DB's high has never bothered me, going back to drafting Clarence Scott and Thom Darden. I was very happy when we drafted Joe. I wanted to draft the Honey Badger.


I just don't get the Pacman thing. Even taking out all the "bling" stuff around him, he is 34 years old. Seems old to me, but guys like Deion and D Green were fast enough that even with a lost step or three could still play well at advanced age.

Can someone tell me how shoulder pads are going to help Coleman block Myles?

LOL.....well, they do make him a little wider. That has to help, right?

For one thing it gets more physical, which will help the offensive lineman (not that it’s really going to help Coleman.)

Plus the offensive lineman can grab pads to help slow down the defender.
It also makes the defender wider.

Maybe they can add some weights to Garrett's to slow him down? Or add some hooks for Coleman to grab on to...

It's not more physical if you ain't touching him. LOL

Good point.lol

Btw----------thanks for all the updates.

Footwork will be key work and having Garrett most reps is great.

Heard this LB Avery is the real deal. according to Bitonio.

Pads is when hitting will start and OL you don't know until hitting.

Chanoine was a perfect example. That kid had great feet and then once hitting started...he was like a turnstile.

I have gotten to like Coleman cause he has a nice little nasty streak in him. Great for the run game. We will see what happens. The guy who intrigues me is Robinson...man if Joe Thomas can straighten him out - what a physical specimen.

Don't understand the Cramps happening out there I mean I got our guys Saturating properly I don't see how we don't we probably leave it up to individuals but Guys like to be told specifically what to do. They should have started saturating Monday for the start of camp.

jmho

man, i forgot about roger chanoine .. yeesh

From the statements I've seen from Thomas he said he was there to help some in the spring. I don't believe he is working with the OL any longer and won't be on a continual basis.

yeah, he might occasionally pop in, but he's done. I think a lot of former players initially say "I'm going to help mentor and coach, etc, etc." ... and then they realize how much TIME and how little reward you get from it, then they head to the broadcast booth/studio booth

I'm not so sure that Thomas even suggested he would stick around. I believe the vast majority of that was wishful thinking from the fans. He did far more than he had to do and I do believe he tried to help them with technique.

I think the wishful thinking of some fans caused them to think this was something that would be on an ongoing basis which was something that was never stated from the beginning.

Something to hang onto. Make him drag you because he is already past you probably. LOLetc

I am perfectly fine with Pacman. IF he can still play bring him in, we need help at CB/KR

Trying to sell Shon as a Left tackle is not going to look good on Dorsey's or Jackson's resume .. lol

it's probably the biggest question mark for me right now

I agree you need to hydrate.

That said, some,if not all players are given reporting weights. Some have to dehydrate to get down to weight if a couple of pounds over, thus the cramps the first few days until they get back to their "normal".

Peppers can't be the answer. Nice part of the gam ehose returns for some clubs. We have some upside there.

Like I have been saying, you don't replace Joe T. It is what it is....no matter who we get anytime soon is going to be a downgrade. It might be 30 years before we get a LT as good considering he was one of the 3-4 best to ever play the position. I am just saying to not expect it to be this year.


The up side is that as good as Joe was, he wasn't considered a great run blocker. He was a great pass blocker. If we can get a guy who is good at run blocking, the loss will be minimize.

Whatever his weaknesses and strengths, you game plan that some while you work on the weakest and minimize them. We won't replace JT, maybe ever. But we can do what we must to compensate as best we can.

If u miss a run block as a LT u get tackled for a loss ...

If u miss a pass block at LT u could lose your QB ...

“Trading” a great pass blocking LTfor a great run blocking LT is not even close to an even trade ...

A few thoughts on the recent posts on this thread.

--The word is "hydrate," not "saturate."

--I know OL play and Joe Thomas was a very good run blocker. He might have been the best gap blocking tackle in the entire NFL. It's a completely false narrative to say he wasn't a good run blocker.

--I worry about Coleman at LT because I think his lateral movement is slow. That's a killer at LT.

Well I know he has no official capacity with the team which says it all really.

But I think we just have an open door welcoming him whenever he would like to attend. I guess these kids are like his little brothers and he has a place in his heart for them and wishes to help. That is what I see.

I think it would be very wise of the team to have an open door policy for him in that regard. At the same time I realize he has a wife and family and will be pursing full time employment in another field. I would say between career and family his time will be very limited.

My biggest concern is that there have been no new ThomaHawk podcasts in over a month!! WTH(eck)

I would guess that the podcast is nearly done. Both Hawkins and Thomas have moved on to bigger and better things.

I am not really trading one for the other. No matter who plays there is going to have to be decent as a pass blocker. I get that. I am not saying whoever plays there can be a poor pass blocker and still be a good LT.

My point is we are going to lose something in the pass blocking department no matter what. We might gain something in the run blocking department.

No doubt we are going to have to make some adjustments.

I don't think I painted a picture that said he wasn't good.