Losing Ben Tate for multiple weeks was certainly a step in the wrong direction for the Cleveland Browns. Losing Jordan Cameron at all could prove catastrophic. The Browns are trying to get some kind of offensive rhythm going after they were essentially shutdown by the Pittsburgh Steelers and both Cameron and Tate are crucial to the effort. Tate is officially out following a knee injury, but is there hope for Cameron despite his shoulder injury?
Cameron has still yet to practice following re-injuring his shoulder in Week 1. Cameron was dealing with the injury at the end of last season, but entered 2014 healthy and ready to play. The Browns dodged one bullet when an MRI revealed no structural damage was found, but Cameron is still in pain and not practicing, putting him in serious doubt for Week 2 against the New Orleans Saints.
Head coach Mike Pettine labeled the tight end day-to-day, but missing two straight practices makes him seem more like out indefinitely. This is not the year that Cameron wants to get injured again. First, he is expected to be the primary passing target after the suspension to Josh Gordon. Brian Hoyer is in need of the tight end's hands simply because the remaining wide receivers leave a lot to be desired. Also, Cameron is in a contract year and waiting for his pay raise.
According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Cameron is likely to play out the remaining time on his deal and not get extended during the season. The two sides attempted to work something out during the offseason, but failed to agree on a number. The contract to Jimmy Graham plays a large part in what Cameron will earn. He is used as a hybrid player as well and could be franchised this offseason. Graham attempted to argue his position in order to get more money on his franchise tag deal, something Cameron could do as well.
The Browns need Cameron against the Saints. If he is not present in Thursday's practice, there is a good chance that he is out for Week 2. Fantasy owners beware, there might need to be roster adjustments made. Terrance West is a must-start player after Tate's injury. Andrew Hawkins and Miles Austin could be as well along with Gary Barnidge.