The Cleveland Browns have bolstered their lineup with crucial activations just ahead of their much-anticipated Week 1 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. Among those returning to action are Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson, who have all successfully passed their physical examinations.
Offensive Line Reinforcements
Jack Conklin's return is particularly significant for the Browns. The veteran offensive tackle is coming back from a season-ending knee injury he sustained last year in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Conklin’s time off the field has been substantial, as he’s missed 29 regular season games over the past three seasons. His return to practice this summer marks a critical point for both the player and the team, as he looks to regain his pivotal role on the offensive line.
Conklin's absence previously necessitated the stepping up of Dawand Jones. However, Jones also faced a season-ending injury, compounding the team’s difficulties. As Conklin steps back into his role, this could signal a more fortified and experienced line of defense for the Browns moving forward.
Jedrick Wills Jr. is another noteworthy returnee. The starting left tackle underwent knee surgery and missed the final nine games of the last regular season, including the playoff loss to Houston. His absence was felt deeply, with Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson stepping in to cover for him. The return of Wills will undoubtedly shore up the left side of the line, adding much-needed stability and protection.
Defensive Units Strengthened
On the defensive side, the Browns welcome back Greg Newsome II and D'Anthony Bell. Newsome, a vital part of the secondary, had been sidelined for three regular season games last year due to a hamstring injury. His return adds depth and skill to the cornerback position, which is particularly crucial as Denzel Ward remains in concussion protocol. Ward's uncertain status highlights the importance of Newsome's readiness for the upcoming games.
D'Anthony Bell, who had two interceptions last season, also makes his comeback. Bell’s presence in the defensive backfield bolsters the secondary unit, providing the team with more options and flexibility.
Free Agency and Roster Adjustments
Adding to the defensive lineup, Dalvin Tomlinson, recently signed from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency, is ready to contribute. Tomlinson's inclusion promises to strengthen the Browns' defensive front, offering experienced play and vital leadership.
However, not all news is positive for the Browns. Nick Chubb remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List and will be sidelined for the first four weeks of the regular season. This places additional pressure on the remaining running backs to perform in Chubb's absence.
In another roster move, rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is projected to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List. This expected development indicates the Browns' ongoing adjustments and considerations as they finalize their roster.
Upcoming Deadlines
The Browns face a critical deadline, needing to trim their active roster to 53 players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. They have already initiated this process, having announced their first series of cuts to bring their roster down to 76 players. As the final roster decisions loom, the team must balance retaining talent and managing injuries to navigate the upcoming season successfully.
With these adjustments and returns, the Cleveland Browns look poised to enter Week 1 against the Dallas Cowboys with renewed strength and optimism. The reintegration of key players on both sides of the ball will be crucial to their success and resilience in the early stages of the season.