The Cleveland Browns appear to be doing everything they can to prepare quarterback Brandon Weeden to be the starter Week 1 of the 2013 season. After bringing in Jason Campbell as the apparent backup to the second-year starter, the two have been in a strong quarterback competition throughout OTAs. As the Browns remain non-committal to either being the true starter, Campbell's reps with the first-team offense have become less and less.
As the Browns continue on with voluntary workouts, Weeden has been the quarterback to spend the most time with the first-team offense. While Campbell might get some time during training camp, the coaching staff is working overtime to get Weeden up to speed and fully prepared to lead the team in 2013. Number of reps only says so much about who the team is ready to put under center as head coach Rob Chudzinski continues to stress that the team is going to let the situation play itself out.
"Brandon is getting the reps with the first team and working with the first group. A lot of this will remain to be seen when we get into pads and we get into real football instead of the football where you run around in shorts on air," Chudzinski said.
The new head coach has been complimentary of both quarterbacks. He is impressed with the progress of Weeden and his ability to adapt to the system so quickly. He also appreciates Campbell's drive and ability to show veteran experience.
Both quarterbacks have not exactly been overly impressive as starters. Campbell has nine years on Weeden and is 31-40 as a starter while spending the last few years as a backup. Weeden went 5-10 last seasons while showing great arm strength. He threw for 3,385 yards and 14 touchdowns, however he also had 17 interceptions. The Browns decided against drafting a quarterback this year, leaving the decision of starter between Weeden and Campbell.
No matter who gets the start, it will be the seventh different quarterback to start Week 1 for the Browns. Since Charlie Frye started in 2006, Cleveland has seen everyone from Derek Anderson to Colt McCoy to Brady Quinn kickoff the season. If Both Weeden and Campbell fail to get the job done, the Browns will be forced to look to the 2014 season for a long-term option at quarterback.