Brian Hoyer ahead of Johnny Manziel on Browns' first depth chart
The Cleveland Brownsreleased their first official depth chart Tuesday, and Brian Hoyer was listed first at quarterback, ahead of rookie Johnny Manziel.
Browns coach Mike Pettine had said going into training camp that the two would split reps at practice, but Hoyer was the only one given snaps with the first team at the beginning of camp, fueling speculation he was ahead in the quarterback battle.
That began to change last week, as Manziel reportedly narrowed the gap between he and Hoyer and then took reps with the first-team offense for the first time Monday. Pettine insisted it was "part of the plan."
Hoyer won all three games he started for Cleveland last season before tearing his right ACL and missing the rest of the season. The Browns selected Manziel with their second first-round pick in the 2014 NFL draft.
The inclusion of wide receiver Josh Gordon as one of the team's starting receivers was also notable, given that his playing status this season is in doubt.
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Gordon's hearing to determine his punishment for a third failed drug test concluded Monday. The offense usually carries a year-long suspension, but Gordon appealed, reportedly focusing on the drug-testing process.
The Browns open the preseason Saturday against the Lions in Detroit.
- Ben Estes
