The Cleveland Browns are entering the second half of the season with raised expectations than they entered the first half with. The Browns find themselves in playoff contention with one of their best offensive performers set to return in just two weeks which means things are looking pretty bright for the future. However, before they get Josh Gordon back, they have to win without Jordan Cameron who remains out with a concussion.
The Browns announced that the tight end will not be available for the Week 10 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals as he has yet to be cleared following a concussion. This is Cameron's third concussion in the past three years which of course raises concerns about his long-term health. The Browns have fared well in his absence. Cameron did not play in the Tampa Bay or New Orleans game and Cleveland pulled out wins in both.
The issue could be the availability of Andrew Hawkins. The wide receiver has been a big bright spot for the Browns as he leads in receiving stats, but he is currently listed as questionable for the Thursday Night Football matchup with thigh and knee issues. He currently has 504 yards on the season and quarterback Brian Hoyer could be in a tough spot if both of his top targets are sitting out.
The Browns expect to give rookie Terrance West the starting nod at running back and with the injuries at the receiver spot, the pressure is on to perform at a high level. The Browns have been benefitting from a three-headed rushing attack of West, Ben Tate and Isaiah Crowell and Cleveland feels the rookie is ready to take on a bigger work load. According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Browns have been overly impressed with the rookie through the start of the season despite his inconsistent time on the field.
With several offensive performers out, will Johnny Manziel be brought on to change up the pace? The backup quarterback has gotten action in just one game this year as Hoyer continues to be the more successful option. It is unlikely the Browns will turn to him, but general manager Ray Farmer remains confident that Manziel can be a starter in the NFL.
"I want Johnny to play when Johnny's ready to play, and we're comfortable with where we're at and how we want to play him and what the total organization looks like around him," said Farmer, via Cleveland Plain Dealer. "The result is for him to be successful for a long period of time and not just for a moment or for a flash, but for an extended period of time. We're going to put together the right group, and we're going to make sure everything is in place. He's going to be ready, and we're going to be ready when he does get that opportunity."
