The Cleveland Browns did not draft a quarterback in the NFL Draft, leaving many to think that Brandon Weeden would in fact be the true starter of the team. They signed veteran Jason Campbell in the offseason to be the assumed backup and add some depth at the position. Now it seems that Weeden may not be a lock to start Week 1 like it was thought. Head coach Rob Chudzinski is not naming a starting quarterback and will let the two compete for the spot.
Neither quarterback is getting the vote of confidence just yet. As offseason workouts continue, Chudzinski is going to see how everyone progresses before committing to one guy or the other.
"I expect both of these guys to compete. I don't know any other way. Anybody that's on a team is competing from my standpoint. We want to put these guys in a situation, give them every chance to succeed and we'll see how that all plays out. I'm hoping that the best man wins the job and that he gives us a chance to win," Chudzinski said.
Weeden's rookie season was not overwhelmingly great. He played in 15 games for the Browns throwing for 3,385 yards and 14 touchdowns while also having 17 interceptions. The Browns kicked off 2012 by losing their first five games and split their final six. They did hit their stride in November going on a three-game win streak, but it simply was not enough.
Campbell has spent time primarily as a backup in the league. He played in six games for the Chicago Bears last season, replacing starter Jay Cutler when he was injured. He threw for 265 yards and two touchdowns in total. Campbell has been in the league since 2006 and has seen varied time as both a starter and a backup. He brings in a veteran presence that could really push Weeden.
Norv Turner is heading up the Cleveland offense this upcoming season and Weeden should excel in his system. Chudzinski said that as of this moment, Weeden will continue to take snaps with the first-team unit and they will see how things look going forward. He has been pleased with what he has seen with both quarterbacks, but says it is too early to tell one way or the other.