The Cleveland Browns have one healthy running back entering the first game of the season. Isaiah Crowell who was doubtful to earn the starting job during the preseason is now the man in charge of the run game with Terrance West now playing in Tennessee. That has caused some concern for the team and leaving the Browns to consider other options on the free agent market before heading into the game against the New York Jets.
According to Mark Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Browns have had discussions with Montee Ball since he was released by the Denver Broncos and cleared waivers. Interest on Ball has been quiet so far, but the Browns would be the ideal landing spot for the former second-round draft pick. Ball would be a huge upgrade for the Browns considering the numbers he put up his rookie season before struggling with injuries last year. The team passed on the chance to claim him in time to make him active for Week 1, but he could still be of use if he were signed.
The Browns are hopeful that Duke Johnson plays a big role on Sunday. The rookie has returned to practice following a preseason that included a hamstring injury and a concussion. Head coach Mike Pettine is hopeful that he plays a large role in the game plan this week as he works to get involved quickly with the offense. If Johnson can return healthy, he might be a fantasy sleeper pick later in the season as many believe he is the second coming of Darren Sproles.
Another player set to make an impact early is Terrelle Pryor who made the team as a receiver. According to Pettine, he wants to see a lot out of the versatile player who lined up as both a receiver and quarterback during the preseason.
"Terrelle is here because he showed that promise and that potential, but once you make the 53, you have to be a productive member of the team," Pettine said, Ohio.com. "It's hard to just have that be a project for a year, so we are looking for the returns on that investment to be a little bit sooner than later. I think he's shown that he's capable of it, but for him, it's about being consistent, knowing what to do, being available from a physical standpoint, then going out there and executing. He's going to get every opportunity in practice to do that."
The Browns are getting players back healthy. Johnny Manziel returned to practice, but is not expected to play Week 1. The team is hopeful they can start off on a good note and beat the Jets at the beginning of the season.
