As the Cleveland Browns prepare for their Week 1 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, they have welcomed back several key players, a move that could significantly bolster their chances for the upcoming game. Among those activated are Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson, all having successfully passed their physical examinations.
Jack Conklin's Return
Jack Conklin's comeback is particularly noteworthy. The right tackle suffered a devastating season-ending knee injury last year against the Cincinnati Bengals and has missed an alarming 29 regular season games over the past three seasons. Despite these setbacks, Conklin has resumed practice with the team for the first time this summer. It's a promising development for the Browns, especially considering that Dawand Jones, who temporarily stepped in for Conklin, also suffered a season-ending injury shortly thereafter. The Browns' offensive line could greatly benefit from Conklin’s presence if he can remain healthy.
Jedrick Wills Jr. and the Left Tackle Position
Jedrick Wills Jr. also returns with a clean bill of health after undergoing knee surgery that sidelined him for the final nine games of the regular season and the playoff loss to Houston. His absence had been sorely felt, with Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson all stepping into the left tackle role during his recovery. With Wills back, the Browns' offensive line gets much-needed stability and depth, enhancing their ability to protect quarterback Deshaun Watson and facilitate the run game.
Defensive Boosts
Defensively, the Browns will be buoyed by the return of Greg Newsome II and the addition of Dalvin Tomlinson. Newsome, who missed three regular-season games last year due to a hamstring injury, is expected to add solidity to the secondary. Denzel Ward remains in concussion protocol, so Newsome's presence becomes even more critical in shoring up the defensive backfield.
Dalvin Tomlinson, signed from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency, will look to make an immediate impact on the defensive line. With Rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. expected to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List, Tomlinson's role becomes all the more significant.
Challenges Ahead
Despite these welcome returns, challenges remain for the Browns. Star running back Nick Chubb is on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List and is set to miss the first four weeks of the regular season. Chubb's absence leaves a significant void in the Browns' offensive arsenal, putting pressure on other running backs to step up in his absence.
Additionally, safety D'Anthony Bell, who registered two interceptions last season, has also passed his physical and will be ready to contribute. With roster cuts looming—the Browns need to trim their roster to 53 players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET—it remains to be seen who will secure their spot on the team.
Final Preparations
The Browns have already made their first round of roster cuts, bringing their roster down to 76 players. These final sessions of practice will be crucial for those on the bubble, as performance, even in these final moments, can make the difference between making the team or hitting the waiver wire.
Overall, the Browns' ability to reintegrate key players like Conklin, Wills Jr., and Newsome, while also adding proven talent in Tomlinson, gives them a more robust roster heading into Week 1. However, the absences of Chubb and other injured players will require the team to rally and play cohesive football if they are to start the season on a positive note.