I know that sounds like a crazy statement, but after playing the reining NFC champions to a draw for two scrimmages and a preseason game, it feels like a win to me. Monday’s scrimmage was won by the Browns by virtue of their defense. Tuesday’s scrimmage was won by the Eagles, again by virtue of their defense. In the game, the Browns number two offense beat an Eagles defense with some starters and the Browns number two defense manhandled the Eagles number two offense. Another safety, I can’t even remember the last time the Browns had a safety in the regular season. In the second half, it was pretty much even. The only difference was the kicker. The fate or non-fate of Cade York is now front and center on the minds of Browns nation.
On offense, the Browns have a future starter in Dorian Thompson-Robinson. I’ll repeat this again, the Browns will have carry three quarterbacks on their final 53-man roster. Josh Dobbs is still the number two quarterback because he has NFL experience. There is a problem at the wide receiver position. A good problem. If Marguise Goodwin can’t make the season opener, then the Browns will place him on the non-football injury list. That creates an opening at wide receiver and Austin Watkins is definitely making a case to take that spot. I still worry the team won’t have a true kick returner, but the longer Jakeem Grant and Jaelon Darden don’t play, the more Watkins inches closer to a roster spot. Running back Jerome Ford and DPJ handled return duties in 2022. As for the backup running back spot, Demetric Felton has played well, I just wish he could pass block better. He gives up too soon. The offensive line was solid. RT Dawand Jones looks like a steal. Nick Harris is making a case to be on a roster, whether it’s with the Browns or another team. Luke Wypler again played at guard and center. Michael Dunn is so underrated. Tyrone Wheatley continues to shine. Of the two veteran guards, Colby Gossett and Wes Martin, Martin is playing better with the more game time he gets. At tight end, no one impressed, thank goodness Harrison Bryant is returning to practice this week.
On defense, DT Maurice Hurst is passing DT Jordan Elliott and it’s not even close. But can the Browns rely on him staying healthy? DT Shelby Harris is all that and more. He’s big, strong and see’s thing so quickly. Great signing. At DE, Isaiah Mcguire played better, but it’s still a position of need until Alex Wright returns. The August 29 roster cutdown date will be interesting. LB Mohamoud Diabate is a name to watch. He’s not the best is space, but he’s already playing at NFL speed. If Jordan Kunaszyk doesn’t improve his game. Diabate will take his roster spot. Hopefully safety Ronnie Hickman’s concussion isn’t too serious. He’s earned a roster spot over D’Anthony Bell. CB Cameron Mitchell is playing very well in the slot. Greg Newsome might not get an extension if Mitchell keeps this up. CB Caleb Biggers and S Tanner McCalister have played themselves onto the practice squad.
The coverage units on kick returns played very well. After an eleven-yard return by the Eagles on the first punt, they really stepped up and shut down the Eagles. Kickoff coverage was also better. As for kicker Cade York, time to bring in some competition, even if it’s a street free agent. If the competition kicks well, place them on the practice squad as an emergency and to push York. I doubt the Browns are going to cut York unless he really regresses or asks to be cut. He has the talent, but the mental block showed on his face before the next to last field goal attempt. Wide eyes and a heavy sigh. Yikes.
Now it’s onto a Saturday afternoon game in Kansas City. Word is the starters will play, probably not the entire first half, but more than a series. I don’t expect to see RB Nick Chubb or DE Myles Garrett until the opener against the Bengals. Stay safe and Go Browns.