Two Key Questions for Browns

Now that the Cleveland Browns have completed their preseason game zero, and the Hall of Fame weekend the team will return to a full practice today in preparation for what the Browns are considering their first preseason game against the Washington Commanders.

There are two key questions that I will be looking for answers to prior to the kickoff on Friday night.

1. What starters will play and how much will they play?

Much of the questions and talk this week out of Berea will be about what starters will expect to get playing time and exactly how much will they play? It has been previously reported that the Browns would like to get some work in for their starters and specifically Deshaun Watson.

I would expect head coach Kevin Stefanski to at some point acknowledge that starters will play while trying not to give out too many details. I am sure that Stefanski will want to have the opportunity to discuss things with Washington Head Coach, Ron Rivera to determine expectations for the game.

While I do want to see some starters, mainly Deshaun Watson and Elijah Moore, I am hoping that players like Myles Garrett and Nick Chubb don't see the field at all. Playing Watson presents a tricky scenario when it comes to making decisions about your entire starting offensive line.

2. Which WR steps up to solidify a roster spot?

Injuries sure have changed my expectations for this wide receiver room over the last two weeks. With Goodwin out indefinitely with his medical situation, the door opened for another receiver to have a shot at making the roster.

Daylen Baldwin, looked to be making the most of his opportunities in camp but suffered that unfortunate injury that will keep him out 6-8 weeks. You can read more about his injury here.

Jaelon Darden, suffered a hamstring injury over a week ago and it seems as if it might be a few weeks until he is back to full speed.

Jakeem Grant, hasn't returned to full speed and contact to this point but perhaps he is able to this week. I will be focused to see if he still contains the burst and quickness he possessed prior to the injury.

Anthony Schwartz, now seems to be fighting for his NFL career on every snap. The fumble in the Jets game is just another error in a long line of mistakes that have piled on his resume.

David Bell, while I think he ultimately makes the roster, I would love to see some life out of him this week in practices and especially in the game. He has reliable hands but seems to lack the juice that playing receiver in the NFL requires.

Austin Watkins, perhaps the most obvious answer to this question is the guy who really already stepped up in the first preseason game, catching a TD pass from Dorian Thompson-Robinson.