Cleveland Browns (3 Viewers)

[GreatLakesMike]

Win or lose, it will be nice to see an offense that hits a few home runs. Richardson will bust a few and Weeden has the arm to go deep. That has to excite everyone on the team, in particular, the offensive linemen.

 

[NJDawgPound]

Win or lose, it will be nice to see an offense that hits a few home runs. Richardson will bust a few and Weeden has the arm to go deep. That has to excite everyone on the team, in particular, the offensive linemen.

As bad as Derek Anderson regressed into, there were a few times where we led off the game with a bomb to Braylon (and if I recall, hit on one or two). Just having the threat of the long ball will keep teams honest.

 

[Fensalk]

I think everyone knows Weeden has a strong arm. Firing the ball around the field during practice is expected. The concern is his decision-making under pressure, against a defense. Just how ugly will the picks be? I expect as a rookie he'll probably cost the team some games with crucial picks. If he makes it in the NFL, it may take him 3 years to put it all together. This is a developmental year. Let's not get carried away and start dreaming of an explosive offense with Weeden in 2012.

Thanks Debbie Downer. God knows Browns fans should never have a glimmer of hope.

What is your problem? Weeden is high risk. Do you think he's on the same level as Luck or RGIII? What do you expect of this guy?

He has risk but I don't see how he is "high" risk. He may not be as good a pure QB as Luck or athlete as Griffin but I expect him to have the best year of the 3.And you asking someone else what their problem is is pretty funny.

it's part of the shtick. he argues with people until he gets a timeout or is banned. then he comes back with a new username and starts all over again.

You think viewing Weeden as high risk is ban-worthy?

of course not. just noting a pattern of rude behavior is all. here comes the persecution complex part of the shtick.

Oh, ok. Its the "attack him and watch him complain about being attacked." C'mon, dude.

 

[amnesiac]

I think everyone knows Weeden has a strong arm. Firing the ball around the field during practice is expected. The concern is his decision-making under pressure, against a defense. Just how ugly will the picks be? I expect as a rookie he'll probably cost the team some games with crucial picks. If he makes it in the NFL, it may take him 3 years to put it all together. This is a developmental year. Let's not get carried away and start dreaming of an explosive offense with Weeden in 2012.

Thanks Debbie Downer. God knows Browns fans should never have a glimmer of hope.

What is your problem? Weeden is high risk. Do you think he's on the same level as Luck or RGIII? What do you expect of this guy?

He has risk but I don't see how he is "high" risk. He may not be as good a pure QB as Luck or athlete as Griffin but I expect him to have the best year of the 3.And you asking someone else what their problem is is pretty funny.

it's part of the shtick. he argues with people until he gets a timeout or is banned. then he comes back with a new username and starts all over again.

You think viewing Weeden as high risk is ban-worthy?

of course not. just noting a pattern of rude behavior is all. here comes the persecution complex part of the shtick.

Oh, ok. Its the "attack him and watch him complain about being attacked." C'mon, dude.

seems to happen a lot to you.no wonder you're such a pessimist.

 

[GreatLakesMike]

Win or lose, it will be nice to see an offense that hits a few home runs. Richardson will bust a few and Weeden has the arm to go deep. That has to excite everyone on the team, in particular, the offensive linemen.

As bad as Derek Anderson regressed into, there were a few times where we led off the game with a bomb to Braylon (and if I recall, hit on one or two). Just having the threat of the long ball will keep teams honest.

Not that it means anything, but this year's team will have more speed at 3 different offensive skill positions; WR (Benjamin), TE (Cameron), and RB (Richardson). Weeden has a big arm that can get the ball downfield, and the offensive line "should" be better with more depth. Shurmur's system has been in place for a year and hopefully he's went through the rookie coach growing pains.I'm really excited to watch what I think will be a completely different offense this year. I don't expect miracles, but there is talent on the field that will "push" defenses. No disrespect to any player or coach, but this has been a plodding, grind it out offense that scared no one the past few seasons.Reading good things about Weeden, Benjamin, and Cameron. Means nothing, but as I said in another thread about Cameron, it's better than reading, "Well, he has a few things to work on...."

 

[beer 30]

Sweet, just got a notification that Carlton Mitchell is now following me on Twitter

 

[GreatLakesMike]

Sweet, just got a notification that Carlton Mitchell is now following me on Twitter

I hope you changed your pants.

 

[Fensalk]

I think it would have been a vastly better idea to stockpile another first rounder in 2013, play McCoy in 2012, and see if you can trade up for Barkley, if you don't wind up with the first overall.

I'm nervous they will pass on Barkley in the draft if they wind up with the first overall pick. I think they have to take him unless Weeden is godly as a rookie.

 

[beer 30]

How do you ignore someone again?

 

[MAC_32]

Unless Weeden suffers a serious injury we will not be looking at a QB in 2013. There may be a lot of them, but we won't be looking at them.

 

[NJDawgPound]

Sweet, just got a notification that Carlton Mitchell is now following me on Twitter

He's following me too. He's a fun dude on the Twitter.

 

[nxmehta]

I think it would have been a vastly better idea to stockpile another first rounder in 2013, play McCoy in 2012, and see if you can trade up for Barkley, if you don't wind up with the first overall.I'm nervous they will pass on Barkley in the draft if they wind up with the first overall pick. I think they have to take him unless Weeden is godly as a rookie.

Alernatively, we can trade down, net 3-4 1st round picks and a couple 2nds, and pick about 10 more lineman.I bet we could field an all lineman team! Team BGP, aka, Browns Go Poop... ON THE OPPONENT

 

[daveR]

Unless Weeden suffers a serious injury we will not be looking at a QB in 2013. There may be a lot of them, but we won't be looking at them.

Maybe not with the top pick, but Holmgren likes QBs, and I would be shocked if he didn't add one later.

 

[GreatLakesMike]

How do you ignore someone again?

Go up to your username in the top right hand corner and click the down arrow. Go to Manage Ignored Users. I get it. Did the same a few weeks ago. No sense reading content from people who ##### just to #####.

 

[GreatLakesMike]

So.......if all things go well, Taylor will only be out 4 to 6 months... That's good news.

 

[Bobcat10]

So.......if all things go well, Taylor will only be out 4 to 6 months... That's good news.

Ya, I mean it blows he got hurt...but I'd rather him have this injury than many others, especially lower body with his size. He has plenty of time to rehab and get to 100%. I still don't want them to rush him back in...waiting for next offseason may be ideal if we're not racking up wins early in the season.

 

[beer 30]

How do you ignore someone again?

Go up to your username in the top right hand corner and click the down arrow. Go to Manage Ignored Users. I get it. Did the same a few weeks ago. No sense reading content from people who ##### just to #####.

Thanks GB This thread just got so much better

 

[Faust]

McCoy talks, remains determined to start

Browns quarterback Colt McCoy won't be rolling out the red carpet and simply handing over his job, despite so much conventional wisdom pointing in that direction. [McCoy] is determined to stave off the challenge from rookie Brandon Weeden for his starting job. "I'm a competitor and I'm working harder than ever," he told The Plain Dealer in an email. They were his first public remarks since Weeden was drafted No. 22 overall to become the Browns' starter. McCoy declined further comment, choosing to focus on the off-season program and the challenge he'll get from Weeden. McCoy might be available next week when the team open its organized activities to the media for one of the three days.

The Plain Dealer

 

[wadegarrett]

From Terry Pluto's notes yesterday...

Weeden indeed was superb in rookie camp. One Browns football man told me, "He wasn't just accurate, he was ridiculously accurate. And his arm is strong." They had him under center more than 90 percent of the time. He had "zero" problems making the adjustment from the shotgun, which he used at Oklahoma State most of the time. Maybe this will change once people are being rushed and tackled, but the Browns went into rookie weekend with high expectations -- and Weeden exceeded them.

 

[amnesiac]

word is they believe Weeden is "the real deal."

obviously need to see it with bullets flying, but it's encouraging news.

 

[Faust]

Brandon Weeden should be 'the guy' at QB, Browns GM says

Cleveland Browns general manager Tom Heckert left no doubt on Monday that he sees first-round draft pick Brandon Weeden winning the team's quarterback competition.

"You can write about it and talk about it however you want," Heckert told The Plain Dealer. "The best guy is going to play and we fully (expect) Brandon to be that guy. That's our goal, is to have him be the guy."

The Browns also have quarterbacks Colt McCoy, who started most of the games in 2011, and Seneca Wallace on their roster.

Though Browns coach Pat Shurmur recently said Weeden, the 22nd overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, won't be automatically slotted in atop the depth chart, Heckert made it clear that he expects Weeden will prove himself worthy of the job.

"I think when we say, open competition, the best guy's going to play, that's just the way it is," Heckert said. "But we drafted Brandon Weeden to be that guy. (You) draft a guy 22nd in the draft, you think he's going to be that guy."

Heckert's position is similar to that expressed by team president Mike Holmgren, who said recently on ESPN that Weeden "can't sit and watch for two or three years, but he's got to prove it."

Heckert told the newspaper that the distribution of playing time when OTAs begin Tuesday will have little bearing on what happens come the start of the season.

"We're going to be rotating the guys all over the place," he said. "Whatever you see out there, take it for what it's worth. We've got a long way to go."

 

[PlasmaDogPlasma]

Brandon Weeden should be 'the guy' at QB, Browns GM says

Cleveland Browns general manager Tom Heckert left no doubt on Monday that he sees first-round draft pick Brandon Weeden winning the team's quarterback competition.

"You can write about it and talk about it however you want," Heckert told The Plain Dealer. "The best guy is going to play and we fully (expect) Brandon to be that guy. That's our goal, is to have him be the guy."

The Browns also have quarterbacks Colt McCoy, who started most of the games in 2011, and Seneca Wallace on their roster.

Though Browns coach Pat Shurmur recently said Weeden, the 22nd overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, won't be automatically slotted in atop the depth chart, Heckert made it clear that he expects Weeden will prove himself worthy of the job.

"I think when we say, open competition, the best guy's going to play, that's just the way it is," Heckert said. "But we drafted Brandon Weeden to be that guy. (You) draft a guy 22nd in the draft, you think he's going to be that guy."

Heckert's position is similar to that expressed by team president Mike Holmgren, who said recently on ESPN that Weeden "can't sit and watch for two or three years, but he's got to prove it."

Heckert told the newspaper that the distribution of playing time when OTAs begin Tuesday will have little bearing on what happens come the start of the season.

"We're going to be rotating the guys all over the place," he said. "Whatever you see out there, take it for what it's worth. We've got a long way to go."

Heard on the radio that he also said he expects Phil Taylor to play in 2012.

 

[daveR]

Brandon Weeden should be 'the guy' at QB, Browns GM says

Cleveland Browns general manager Tom Heckert left no doubt on Monday that he sees first-round draft pick Brandon Weeden winning the team's quarterback competition.

"You can write about it and talk about it however you want," Heckert told The Plain Dealer. "The best guy is going to play and we fully (expect) Brandon to be that guy. That's our goal, is to have him be the guy."

The Browns also have quarterbacks Colt McCoy, who started most of the games in 2011, and Seneca Wallace on their roster.

Though Browns coach Pat Shurmur recently said Weeden, the 22nd overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, won't be automatically slotted in atop the depth chart, Heckert made it clear that he expects Weeden will prove himself worthy of the job.

"I think when we say, open competition, the best guy's going to play, that's just the way it is," Heckert said. "But we drafted Brandon Weeden to be that guy. (You) draft a guy 22nd in the draft, you think he's going to be that guy."

Heckert's position is similar to that expressed by team president Mike Holmgren, who said recently on ESPN that Weeden "can't sit and watch for two or three years, but he's got to prove it."

Heckert told the newspaper that the distribution of playing time when OTAs begin Tuesday will have little bearing on what happens come the start of the season.

"We're going to be rotating the guys all over the place," he said. "Whatever you see out there, take it for what it's worth. We've got a long way to go."

Heard on the radio that he also said he expects Phil Taylor to play in 2012.

Yup. They say 4-6 months recovery. Best case is Sept., worst case is Nov.

 

[Faust]

Phil Taylor victim of Browns' sophomore jinx?

By Marc Sessler

Writer

The sophomore jinx has struck again in Cleveland.

Browns defensive tackle Phil Taylor is on the mend from surgery to repair the torn pectoral muscle he suffered lifting weights earlier this month. Taylor is projected to return In 2012, but his second season in the league has been compromised. After starting all 16 games as a rookie, Taylor joins a long list of Browns players to encounter trouble in Year 2.

Here's the trail of tears, courtesy of The Canton Repository:

• Quarterback Tim Couch (No. 1 overall draft pick, 1999): In 2000, his second season, Couch injured his throwing hand in practice, missing the final nine games of the year. The team finished 3-13.

• Defensive end Courtney Brown (No. 1 overall, 2000): In 2001, "The Quiet Storm" missed the first six games with a knee injury. He returned to play five contests before he was lost for the season with an ankle injury. Quiet, indeed.

• Running back William Green (No. 16 overall, 2002): After a solid start in 2003, Green entered an abyss. The back was suspended for violating the NFL's substance-abuse program. Then it got weird: In November, Green's fiancée, Asia Gray, was arrested for stabbing him in the back -- literally. He missed the rest of the season.

• Tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. (No. 6 overall, 2004): KW2 missed all but two games of his 2004 rookie season with a broken right fibula. The following May, Winslow crashed his motorcycle in an Ohio parking lot. Goodbye, 2005.

• Receiver Braylon Edwards (No. 3 overall, 2005): Edwards was faster than the rest of the bunch, suffering a season-ending knee injury with four games to go in his rookie campaign.

• Quarterback Brady Quinn (No. 22 overall, 2007): His first start came in Week 10 of the 2008 season. He threw for 239 yards and two touchdown against the Denver Broncos. One week later, Quinn broke a finger against the Buffalo Bills.

 

[amnesiac]

what about Thomas and Mack and Haden?

 

[BuckeyeChaos]

I know its not the sexiest topic but has anyone heard any updates on the punter competition?

 

[beer 30]

I know its not the sexiest topic but has anyone heard any updates on the punter competition?

Grossi talked to Jim Brown. I sense a bit of bitterness from Jim.http://www.espncleveland.com/common/more.php?m=49&post_id=1160

 

[Captain Quinoa]

I know its not the sexiest topic but has anyone heard any updates on the punter competition?

Grossi said in his chat the other day that Hodges was healthy and booming kicks.

 

[gandalas]

Phil Taylor victim of Browns' sophomore jinx?

By Marc Sessler

Writer

The sophomore jinx has struck again in Cleveland.

Browns defensive tackle Phil Taylor is on the mend from surgery to repair the torn pectoral muscle he suffered lifting weights earlier this month. Taylor is projected to return In 2012, but his second season in the league has been compromised. After starting all 16 games as a rookie, Taylor joins a long list of Browns players to encounter trouble in Year 2.

Here's the trail of tears, courtesy of The Canton Repository:

• Quarterback Tim Couch (No. 1 overall draft pick, 1999): In 2000, his second season, Couch injured his throwing hand in practice, missing the final nine games of the year. The team finished 3-13.

• Defensive end Courtney Brown (No. 1 overall, 2000): In 2001, "The Quiet Storm" missed the first six games with a knee injury. He returned to play five contests before he was lost for the season with an ankle injury. Quiet, indeed.

• Running back William Green (No. 16 overall, 2002): After a solid start in 2003, Green entered an abyss. The back was suspended for violating the NFL's substance-abuse program. Then it got weird: In November, Green's fiancée, Asia Gray, was arrested for stabbing him in the back -- literally. He missed the rest of the season.

• Tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. (No. 6 overall, 2004): KW2 missed all but two games of his 2004 rookie season with a broken right fibula. The following May, Winslow crashed his motorcycle in an Ohio parking lot. Goodbye, 2005.

• Receiver Braylon Edwards (No. 3 overall, 2005): Edwards was faster than the rest of the bunch, suffering a season-ending knee injury with four games to go in his rookie campaign.

• Quarterback Brady Quinn (No. 22 overall, 2007): His first start came in Week 10 of the 2008 season. He threw for 239 yards and two touchdown against the Denver Broncos. One week later, Quinn broke a finger against the Buffalo Bills.

Also cannot overlook TJ Ward last season. After a standout rookie year in 2010, he only played in 8 games last year, which was his 2nd. Haden was thankfully exempt.

 

[Faust]

Weeden would be among Browns' oldest starters

By Marc Sessler

Writer

Springtime tidbit out of Cleveland:

If 28-year-old rookie Brandon Weeden wins the quarterback derby for the Browns, he'll start the 2012 season as the second-oldest player in the team's projected starting offensive lineup.

Check out the legwork done by Steve Doerschuk of the Canton Repository.

Cleveland's likely starters, listed from oldest to youngest:

1. Tight end Ben Watson turns 32 on Dec. 18

2. Weeden turns 29 on Oct. 14

3. Left tackle Joe Thomas turns 28 on Dec. 4

4. Center Alex Mack turns 27 on Nov. 19

5. Receiver Mohamed Massaquoi turns 26 on Nov. 24

6. Left guard Jason Pinkston turns 24 on Sept. 5

7. Fullback Owen Marecic tuns 24 on Oct. 4

8. Right guard Shawn Lauvao turns 24 on Oct. 26

9. Receiver Greg Little turns 23 on May 30

10. Right tackle Mitchell Schwartz turns 23 on June 8

11. Running back Trent Richardson turns 22 on July 10

Meanwhile, grizzled veteran passer Colt McCoy turns 25 in September. Weeden can put the age issue to bed if he proves successful slicing through NFL defenses. As it stands, we have larger issues with this lineup beyond the quarterback's birth date.

 

[GreatLakesMike]

Thanks Faust. I know I'm beating a dead horse, but as I've said a few times, Heckert took the 2nd oldest roster in the league and turned it into the 2nd youngest roster in the league after year 1. His drafts have produced young starters.... some guys take a year or two. This is why I expect some of these mid to late round picks to make a considerable leap this year. I know the media made a big deal about the Browns "panicking" and grabbing Weeden because the Titans drafted Wright, but that's just nonsense. Every team has a board and they "should" stick with the board. Weeden was the next guy, so they drafted him. One thing I like about Heckert is that he doesn't panic. He seems to stay the course and stick with the plan.

I see a hungry team with some young, talented guys who are "chomping at the bit."

 

[GreatLakesMike]

Eric Hagg - 7th round pick.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19123599

Second-year FS Eric Hagg has received plenty of time with the first team. He could compete with expected starter Usama Young for the spot vacated when Mike Adams left for Denver in free agency.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19124232

He also praised 2011 seventh-round pick Eric Hagg, who appears to be in competition with Usama Young for the starting FS job.

Carlton Mitchell - 6th round pick.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19123646

Third-year WR Carlton Mitchell got open three times for medium-range receptions early in the first day of OTAs on Tuesday. Mitchell's raw talent has exceeded his production so far in his career. The Browns would benefit greatly if he emerges as a contributor.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19124232

Coach Pat Shurmur said WR Carlton Mitchell showed flashes of excellence at OTAs.

Brad Smelley - 7th round pick.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19111669

Owen Marecic didn't take the FB job and run with it last season. Seventh-round pick Brad Smelley, who was top pick Trent Richardson's backfield mate at Alabama, impressed at rookie mini-camp. The Browns need a better pass-catcher at FB and Smelley could be the answer.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19043139

Former Alabama FB Brad Smelley showed his versatility at TE and FB by snagging pass after pass. Further progress from the seventh-rounder could spell the end of FB Owen Marecic's short career with the Browns. That Smelley was an Alabama teammate of new featured back Trent Richardson can only help his cause.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19027527

The Browns might have drafted TE/FB Brad Smelley partially because they were dissatisfied with 2011 draftee Owen Marecic, who contributed little last season. Smelley brings greater versatility. Coach Pat Shurmur emphasized that Smelley boasts the same capability as TE Alex Smith, who has been used as a blocking back.

Buster Skrine - 5th round pick.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19111630

Aging Sheldon Brown could lose his spot to Dimitri Patterson or promising second-year player Buster Skrine. ..... The Browns are trying to get faster in the secondary.

James-Michael Johnson - 4th round pick.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19036516

Coach Pat Shurmur said James-Michael Johnson "functioned well" in playing all three LB spots. The presence of MLB D'Qwell Jackson and OLB Scott Fujita's three-game suspension to open the season will force Johnson to play outside, where he started his first two years at Nevada.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19043091

James-Michael Johnson played all three LB positions and displayed impressive speed and quickness. The fourth-round pick out of Nevada could be required to play right away and perhaps start for OLB Scott Fujita, who has been suspended for the first three games.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19111500

Scott Fujita will probably serve his three-game suspension for his alleged participation in Bountygate. He might find fourth-rounder James-Michael Johnson or veteran Kaluka Maiava in his place upon returning. The Browns seek more speed and athleticism at OLB and Johnson in particular could provide it.

Ryan Miller - 5th round pick.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19111473

Shawn Lauvao played respectably in 2011 after struggling his rookie year. Fifth-round pick Ryan Miller (Colorado) was ranked higher by many scouts and could push Lauvao. Lauvao must elevate his game to ensure he retains the starting job.

Joseph Halahuni - FA.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19027422

Coach Pat Shurmur said impressive rookie free agent TE Joseph Halahuni won't be judged against the veterans at that position. "It's easy for a young man to say he's fifth or sixth in line, but we [don't make those] comparisons," Shurmur said. The Browns are deeper at TE than at any other spot.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19027483

One of the most impressive rookie free agents has been TE Joseph Halahuni (Oregon State). He's gotten open consistently on short routes and displayed sure hands. But the Browns are loaded at TE, so his best hope is a practice squad spot.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19043105

Those who never heard of former Oregon State TE Joseph Halahuni before camp have heard of him now. He was a pass-catching machine. Though there was no contact, the free agent still impressed by getting open consistently in team drills. The Browns are loaded at TE, but the coaches will remember Halahuni.

Travis Benjamin - 4th round pick.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19036438

The Browns need fleet WR Travis Benjamin to bolster a weak corps. Coach Pat Shurmur came away impressed. "I saw a lot of good stuff from Travis this weekend," he said. Shurmur added that he can "see him competing" for a starting spot. Benjamin gives the unit a sorely lacking element of speed.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/19123418

Rookie WR Travis Benjamin showed off his speed in passing drills. He began an identical route at the same time as Josh Cribbs and caught the ball five yards further downfield. The fourth-round pick is easily the fastest WR on the team, but must show skills as a route-runner to earn playing time.

Jordan Cameron - 4th round pick.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/players/playerpage/1244459/jordan-cameron

Shurmur expects Cameron to step up: Browns coach Pat Shurmur said that he expects second-year tight end Jordan Cameron to see a jump in production in 2012. Cameron played in just eight games last season and totaled 33 yards on six catches. "The guy that looks way different is Jordan Cameron," Shurmur said. "Oh, gosh -- the size -- and he's had a great offseason. He's a guy that hadn't played much football, so I think he'll make a big improvement this year."

(Updated 05/16/2012)

 

[Bobcat10]

Marecic has been a mind-boggler for me ever since hearing all the raves (from our staff, Harbaugh, etc) after we drafted him. I haven't seen anything impressive and he looked small last season...I can't remember if he even excelled on special teams. Would suck if that's a wasted pick.

 

[amnesiac]

Marecic has been a mind-boggler for me ever since hearing all the raves (from our staff, Harbaugh, etc) after we drafted him. I haven't seen anything impressive and he looked small last season...I can't remember if he even excelled on special teams. Would suck if that's a wasted pick.

true, but if Smelley works out it only cost them a 7th to fix that position so it's not really a big deal.

 

[GreatLakesMike]

Marecic has been a mind-boggler for me ever since hearing all the raves (from our staff, Harbaugh, etc) after we drafted him. I haven't seen anything impressive and he looked small last season...I can't remember if he even excelled on special teams. Would suck if that's a wasted pick.

true, but if Smelley works out it only cost them a 7th to fix that position so it's not really a big deal.

Any upgrade at a starting position is good, especially on offense. I understand Bobcat's point, but you win some, you lose some. We know the RB position has been upgraded and let's hope that the QB, RT, WR and FB positions have been upgraded. You have to like the reports coming out about the young TEs as well.

 

[Faust]

Brandon Weeden takes first-team snaps for Browns

By Gregg Rosenthal

Around The League editor

When the Cleveland Browns opened their first OTA to the media last week, Colt McCoy took the first snaps from center with the first team. One week later, Brandon Weeden had the honors.

The usual OTA disclaimers apply here: It's only May. The media can't watch each practice, so we don't know if the quarterbacks are taking turns with the starters -- we suspect they are -- Mary Kay Cabot of the The Plain Dealer still called the news a "significant development" as the Browns prepare Weeden to starter.

He's not the only rookie counted on for a big role. Running back Trent Richarsdon and right tackle Mitchell Schwartz also lined up with the first team. Free safety Eric Hagg is starting over Usama Young.

It's not exactly a shock Weeden already is taking starter snaps. It doesn't mean he's officially the team's starting quarterback yet, but that designation is a matter of when, not if.

 

[Faust]

Colt McCoy plays good soldier at Browns OTAs

By Marc Sessler

Writer

We learned that Brandon Weeden took the majority of first-team snaps with the Cleveland Browns during Wednesday's OTAs. An obvious next question: Where is Colt McCoy's head at right now, after he was described last week as "a very hurt young man."

NFL Network's Solomon Wilcots spoke with McCoy after Wednesday's session and asked him about the quarterback competition (if it can be called that).

"The best thing for me in this situation is to control what you can control ... and compete your tail off," McCoy said. "Whatever happens after that happens."

McCoy shrugged off any hard feelings on the heels of a tumultuous offseason that saw team president Mike Holmgren and Co. pursue Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III, Sam Bradford and, ultimately, Weeden, the first-round pick being given every chance to earn the starting job. McCoy, by now, has learned to expect change in Cleveland, a constant since the team returned in 1999.

"Whether it was a surprise to me or not, I can't control what happens in this building," McCoy said.

Shurmur warned reporters not to make too much of Weeden taking first-team snaps. Weeden, meanwhile, talked about taking command of a Browns huddle filled with veterans, many of them his junior.

"The farther and farther we get into this thing, the more confident I get and the more confident I get in the huddle," Weeden said. "I think guys are really are taking to what I'm saying. If I come in and say something, it's not just some rookie just talking the talk."

We don't buy this quarterback battle for a minute, mainly because the Browns haven't convinced us there is one.

 

[daveR]

Colt McCoy plays good soldier at Browns OTAs

By Marc Sessler

Writer

We learned that Brandon Weeden took the majority of first-team snaps with the Cleveland Browns during Wednesday's OTAs. An obvious next question: Where is Colt McCoy's head at right now, after he was described last week as "a very hurt young man."

NFL Network's Solomon Wilcots spoke with McCoy after Wednesday's session and asked him about the quarterback competition (if it can be called that).

"The best thing for me in this situation is to control what you can control ... and compete your tail off," McCoy said. "Whatever happens after that happens."

McCoy shrugged off any hard feelings on the heels of a tumultuous offseason that saw team president Mike Holmgren and Co. pursue Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III, Sam Bradford and, ultimately, Weeden, the first-round pick being given every chance to earn the starting job. McCoy, by now, has learned to expect change in Cleveland, a constant since the team returned in 1999.

"Whether it was a surprise to me or not, I can't control what happens in this building," McCoy said.

Shurmur warned reporters not to make too much of Weeden taking first-team snaps. Weeden, meanwhile, talked about taking command of a Browns huddle filled with veterans, many of them his junior.

"The farther and farther we get into this thing, the more confident I get and the more confident I get in the huddle," Weeden said. "I think guys are really are taking to what I'm saying. If I come in and say something, it's not just some rookie just talking the talk."

We don't buy this quarterback battle for a minute, mainly because the Browns haven't convinced us there is one.

I don't think it's "a battle," per se. Everyone wants Weedon to be the man. The problem is that he's a rookie and we don't know for sure how he will produce until he does. There is always the chance he could get into practice and fail -- rookies do that. So, it is indeed a competition, just one we hope will turn out well.

 

[daveR]

Colt McCoy plays good soldier at Browns OTAs

By Marc Sessler

Writer

We learned that Brandon Weeden took the majority of first-team snaps with the Cleveland Browns during Wednesday's OTAs. An obvious next question: Where is Colt McCoy's head at right now, after he was described last week as "a very hurt young man."

NFL Network's Solomon Wilcots spoke with McCoy after Wednesday's session and asked him about the quarterback competition (if it can be called that).

"The best thing for me in this situation is to control what you can control ... and compete your tail off," McCoy said. "Whatever happens after that happens."

McCoy shrugged off any hard feelings on the heels of a tumultuous offseason that saw team president Mike Holmgren and Co. pursue Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III, Sam Bradford and, ultimately, Weeden, the first-round pick being given every chance to earn the starting job. McCoy, by now, has learned to expect change in Cleveland, a constant since the team returned in 1999.

"Whether it was a surprise to me or not, I can't control what happens in this building," McCoy said.

Shurmur warned reporters not to make too much of Weeden taking first-team snaps. Weeden, meanwhile, talked about taking command of a Browns huddle filled with veterans, many of them his junior.

"The farther and farther we get into this thing, the more confident I get and the more confident I get in the huddle," Weeden said. "I think guys are really are taking to what I'm saying. If I come in and say something, it's not just some rookie just talking the talk."

We don't buy this quarterback battle for a minute, mainly because the Browns haven't convinced us there is one.

I don't think it's "a battle," per se. Everyone wants Weedon to be the man. The problem is that he's a rookie and we don't know for sure how he will produce until he does. There is always the chance he could get into practice and fail -- rookies do that. So, it is indeed a competition, just one we hope will turn out well.

Imagine though, if McCoy starts...!

 

[amnesiac]

then they're screwed.

 

[beer 302]

Imagine though, if McCoy starts...!

um. . .NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

 

[daveR]

Imagine though, if McCoy starts...!

um. . .NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

 

[Fensalk]

It would hardly be shocking for Weeden to get benched at some point. It wouldn't mean he is a bust. If he actually played every snap this upcoming season, that alone would be pretty impressive.

 

[GreatLakesMike]

The Richardson grab looks that much better with the latest Blackmon faux pas.

Heckert.

 

[wadegarrett]

The Richardson grab looks that much better with the latest Blackmon faux pas.Heckert.

Hell yeah.

 

[MAC_32]

The Richardson grab looks that much better with the latest Blackmon faux pas.Heckert.

 

[Faust]

Shurmur: Trent Richardson will share 'plenty of reps'

By Marc Sessler

Writer

Trent Richardson wasn't drafted third overall by the Cleveland Browns to be squeezed into a committee of ball carriers.

The former Alabama star was brought in to carry the rock morning, noon and night. We expect that to be the case, but coach Pat Shurmur told the Akron Beacon Journal after Tuesday's minicamp practice there will be "plenty of reps to go around" for the team's other backs, namely Montario Hardesty and Brandon Jackson.

The definition of "plenty" is fluid here. On paper, nobody on the current roster threatens to upstage Richardson.

Hardesty could be fighting for a roster spot after two disappointing, injury-soaked seasons. Jackson hasn't played a down for the team after missing all of last year with a turf toe injury. Chris Ogbonnaya -- who wasn't mentioned by Shurmur -- remains on the roster after showing promise in third-down situations last season, but remains a situational plug-in.

Cleveland has long lacked the type of durable back built to last a full season in the AFC North. Peyton Hillis showed flashes in 2010, but he imploded in 2011 before vanishing into the Kansas City night. Shurmur can talk all day about carries to go around, but if Richardson does what's expected of him, the supporting cast will be wheeled out infrequently.

 

[Clifford]

The Richardson grab looks that much better with the latest Blackmon faux pas.Heckert.

There is a world of difference in terms of talent level between the two without the off-field issues. T-Rich will challenge for best back in the league in his second year. Blackmon may never reach the elite tier of WRs.

 

[GreatLakesMike]

The Richardson grab looks that much better with the latest Blackmon faux pas.Heckert.

There is a world of difference in terms of talent level between the two without the off-field issues. T-Rich will challenge for best back in the league in his second year. Blackmon may never reach the elite tier of WRs.

I agree. I was on board all along.In response to the post above, I really hope that Hardesty is back to 100%. I remember how good he looked in preseason his rookie year. If so, then they'll have a nice 2nd back to spell Richardson and there would be no excuse for not using a run heavy approach.

 

[Lrbutler]

I agree about the Blackman and richardson talks, I think Richardson could be a top 3 back in two to three years in the NFL. Balckman will be a good not great WR for jaxs for the next five years if he not in drunk.