The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for their Week 1 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys with some pivotal activations and roster changes. The team announced that Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson have passed their physical examinations and have been activated. This comes as a significant boost for the Browns, who are looking to make a strong start to the season.
Conklin's Return
Jack Conklin's return to practice is a development that will be keenly watched. Conklin, who suffered a season-ending knee injury last year against the Cincinnati Bengals, has had a challenging few seasons. Over the past three years, he has missed 29 regular season games, an indication of the injury struggles he's faced. This summer marks the first time Conklin will join practice with the team, setting up a much-anticipated return to action.
With Conklin back, the Browns will look to solidify their offensive line, though the wounds of last season are still fresh. Dawand Jones, who had to step in for Conklin, also suffered a season-ending injury, showing the extent of the team's injury woes.
Wills' Comeback
Jedrick Wills Jr. also makes his comeback after knee surgery that sidelined him for the final nine games of the regular season and the playoff loss to Houston. In his absence, the Browns have relied on Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson to fill in at left tackle. Wills' return brings experience and stability back to the offensive line, a crucial element for the Browns' game plan.
Defensive Concerns and Reinforcements
On the defensive side, Greg Newsome II rejoined the team after missing three regular season games last year due to a hamstring injury. His return is timely, given that Denzel Ward remains in the concussion protocol, raising concerns about the Browns' secondary depth. D'Anthony Bell, who notched two interceptions last season, will also bolster the defensive lineup.
Dalvin Tomlinson's Impact
Among the new additions is Dalvin Tomlinson, signed from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency. Tomlinson's presence is expected to strengthen the Browns' defensive front, adding depth and experience to the lineup. The team will need all hands on deck, especially with rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. expected to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List.
Offensive Challenges
Despite these positive updates, the Browns face challenges on the offensive side of the ball. Star running back Nick Chubb remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List and will be sidelined for at least the first four weeks of the regular season. Chubb's absence will be keenly felt, as he is a central figure in the Browns' offensive strategy.
Roster Adjustments
In preparation for the upcoming season, the Browns have started to trim their roster, a task all NFL teams must undertake to meet the 53-player limit by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. The Browns recently announced their first series of roster cuts, reducing the number to 76 players. These decisions are critical in shaping the final team that will take the field against the Cowboys.
As the Browns make these necessary adjustments and welcome back key players, the team is aiming to overcome the trials of the previous season and set a new tone for the 2023 campaign. The activations and signings, coupled with the strategic roster cuts, suggest a focused and determined approach to tackling the season head-on.