Browns sign QB Matt Blanchard to practice squad, McCown still out
The Cleveland Browns have signed former Packers quarterback Matt Blanchard to their practice squad amidst health questions at the position, the team announced Tuesday.
Starting quarterback Josh McCown sustained a concussion in Cleveland’s 31–10 loss to the Jets on Sunday, and backup QB Johnny Manziel missed time during the preseason with lingering elbow soreness.
Coach Mike Pettine said Monday that the team will proceed as if Manziel will start next Sunday against the Titans because it could be days before he knows whether McCown will clear NFL concussion protocol.
• BURKE: Hyde steals spotlight from Peterson as 49ers dominate Vikings
While questions about the timetable for McCown’s return persist, the Browns have signed Blanchard as an additional backup. They released offensive lineman Erie Ladson to make room on the practice roster.
Blanchard is officially in his second NFL season, and signed as an undrafted free agent with the Bears in 2012. He has played for the Bears’ and the Panthers’ practice squads, but has not appeared in a regular-season game. He spent training camp with the Packers, but did not make the final roster.
The Browns will play their home opener against Tennessee at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.
- Erin Flynn
