The Cleveland Browns have made crucial roster adjustments ahead of their Week 1 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, activating several key players from injury lists. In a promising sign for the team, Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson have all successfully passed their physical examinations, signaling their readiness to return to action.
Return of Key Offensive Linemen
The activation of Jack Conklin stands out as particularly significant. The offensive tackle, who has been plagued by injuries, suffered a devastating season-ending knee injury last year against the Cincinnati Bengals. Over the past three seasons, Conklin has missed an alarming 29 regular season games. His return to practice marks his first involvement with the team this summer, setting the stage for a potential comeback.
Jedrick Wills Jr. also makes his return to the field. Wills underwent knee surgery, causing him to miss the final nine games of the regular season and the Browns’ playoff loss to the Houston Texans. His absence left a considerable gap at left tackle, temporarily filled by Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson. The ability to activate Wills bolsters the Browns' offensive line significantly as the regular season approaches.
Defensive Backfield Updates
The secondary sees the return of cornerback Greg Newsome II, who missed three games last season due to a hamstring injury. Newsome’s participation will be vital as the Browns aim to strengthen their pass defense. However, it's worth noting that Denzel Ward remains in the concussion protocol, a situation that will be monitored closely given his importance to the defensive unit.
D'Anthony Bell, who had two interceptions last season, has also been cleared to play. Bell's presence adds depth to the safety position, contributing to the team’s focus on creating turnovers and solid defensive play.
New Additions and Absences
Dalvin Tomlinson, a fresh acquisition from the Minnesota Vikings during the 2023 free agency period, will join the roster. Tomlinson’s addition to the defensive line is expected to fortify the Browns' run defense and add an extra layer of pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Despite these boosts, the Browns have notable absences that could impact their early-season performance. Nick Chubb remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List and will be sidelined for the first four weeks of the regular season. Chubb’s absence creates a significant void in the running game, necessitating a step-up from the backup running backs on the roster.
In another development, rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is poised to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List. This procedural move suggests potential issues unrelated to physical readiness and adds another layer of complexity to the defensive tackle rotation.
Roster Adjustments and Cuts
With the regular season looming, the Browns have commenced their roster trimming, reducing their active squad to 76 players. By Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, the team must finalize its 53-man roster. This downsize process is critical, as it determines the personnel who will take the field in the highly anticipated season opener against the Cowboys.
The Cleveland Browns’ management and coaching staff face a delicate balancing act—reintegrating injured players while finalizing the roster. The return of key players like Conklin and Wills injects optimism, yet the team must navigate early games without the contributions of standout talents like Chubb. As fans and analysts watch closely, the Browns' strategic decisions in these final days of preseason will set the tone for their 2023 campaign.