The Cleveland Browns continue to make roster adjustments heading into their Week 1 matchup against the New York Jets. After team opted not to draft a leading wide receiver or attempt to acquire a big-named running back in the offseason, they are counting on veterans and younger players to step up. So far that plan might not be delivering a lot of confidence to the coaching staff as they continue to move and add players before Sunday. With Terrance West traded to Tennessee, the Browns have now added Robert Turbin to the mix.
The Cleveland Browns' running back rotation is in a state of flux. With West gone, the only truly healthy back is Isaiah Crowell. Duke Johnson is expected to play on Sunday, but his time on the field might be limited due to hamstring and concussion issues suffered in the preseason. The Browns had to make a move. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, the Browns have claimed former Seattle Seahawks running back Robert Turbin who was released after suffering an ankle sprain. Rapoport writes that Turbin is not healthy and is not expected to be healthy for some time, but he does add depth to the backfield.
The addition of Turbin likely ends the discussion for any other running back addition. According to Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Browns had put in a call for Montee Ball who would be considered an upgrade over Turbin. The former second-round draft pick was released by the Denver Broncos after being buried on the depth chart, but is healthy and ready to compete. The idea of adding Ray Rice is also likely over. Head coach Mike Pettine had confirmed that the Browns were considering adding the former Baltimore Ravens running back considering his past experience with several of the coaches. Rice would be an upgrade over both Turbin or Ball, but the Browns do not appear ready for the move.
For now, the Browns will start Crowell and use Johnson as a backup while hoping no one gets injured. Pettine told the media that if Johnson is healthy he could play a huge role against the New York Jets in Week 1. With Terrelle Pryor now released, Josh McCown needs playmakers to get him by. The Browns believe Johnson will be one of those guys on Sunday.
