The Cleveland Browns head into Week 1 with a number of key activations as they prepare to face the Dallas Cowboys. The team's recent moves bring a mix of relief and anticipation for Browns fans and coaching staff alike.
Key Activations and Injury Returns
Among the notable players activated are Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson. All of these players have successfully passed their physical examinations, setting the stage for their participation in the upcoming game. This is particularly good news for the Browns' offensive line, which has seen its fair share of turbulence over the past few seasons.
The Return of Jack Conklin
Jack Conklin, who suffered a season-ending knee injury against the Cincinnati Bengals last year, is one of the pivotal figures making a comeback. His journey to recovery has been arduous, having missed 29 regular-season games over the past three seasons. Conklin stepping back onto the practice field this summer for the first time symbolizes a significant step forward for both him and the team.
Filling in temporarily for Conklin was rookie Dawand Jones, who showed potential but himself succumbed to a season-ending injury. Conklin's return thus comes at an opportune moment, reflecting not just his personal triumph but a necessary boost for the Browns' consistency and depth on the offensive line.
Offensive Line Shakes and Moves
Jedrick Wills Jr. also returns after undergoing knee surgery, which led him to miss the final nine games of the regular season and the subsequent playoff loss to Houston. In his absence, Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson have been sharing responsibilities at left tackle. Wills' activation adds experience and skill back into the lineup, potentially stabilizing a frequently disrupted offensive line.
Defensive Bolster with Newsome and Tomlinson
Greg Newsome II also returns to fitness after missing three regular-season games last year due to a hamstring injury. His presence in the secondary adds depth, particularly beneficial given Denzel Ward's current status in concussion protocol. Newsome's return fortifies a defense that is seeking to prove its mettle against the Cowboys' potent offense.
The activation of Dalvin Tomlinson, freshly signed from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency, further enhances the Browns' defensive line. Tomlinson's arrival was a strategic move to bolster their interior defense, and his clearance to play is a positive indicator of his immediate impact potential.
Secondary and Running Back Challenges
D'Anthony Bell, another key player, brings momentum to the Browns' secondary with his two interceptions last season. His activation speaks to a secondary in recovery mode, ready to support the team's efforts on the field.
While there are many positive activations, Nick Chubb remains a noticeable absentee. Still on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, Chubb will miss at least the first four weeks of the season, limiting the Browns' running game strategy and putting additional pressure on the backfield.
Compounding this, rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is expected to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List, meaning his availability remains uncertain at a critical juncture for the team.
Roster Moves and Season Preparations
In preparation for the season and in adherence to league regulations, the Browns have also started their roster trimming process. They announced their initial roster cuts, bringing their roster down to 76 players. The Browns must finalize these cuts down to 53 players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, which will be pivotal in shaping the team’s readiness for the forthcoming season.
With a blend of returning talents and necessary roster adjustments, the Browns are refining their strategy and personnel to launch their season on the right foot against the Cowboys. These activations present both a challenge and an opportunity for Cleveland as they look to optimize their roster and set a winning tone early in the season.