Josh Gordon Comes To Terms With Cleveland Browns, According To Report

On Monday afternoon, the Cleveland Browns came to terms on a four-year deal worth $5.3 million ($3.8 million guaranteed) with troubled wide receiver Josh Gordon, according to a report filed by the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

#Browns have signed Josh Gordon to 4-year deal, source tells pd. @caplan first reported they agreed to terms. 4 yr, 5.3 mill, 3.8 mill guar

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) July 16, 2012

Gordon was selected in the second round of the 2012 NFL supplemental draft and was the only player taken. After showing flashes of brilliance at Baylor University, Gordon had problems with drugs and tested positive for Marijuana on at least two separate occasions, which ultimately cut his college career short.

The Browns hope to push into the future with Gordon as a centerpiece of the team's offensive attack along with first round selections Brandon Weeden at quarterback and running back Trent Richardson.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Browns Receiver Josh Gordon Denies Report Of 3rd Failed Drug Test At Utah

Although a report released earlier in the week reported that recently drafted Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon failed a third drug test at the University of Utah, the talented wideout publicly revealed that information to be inaccurate. Gordon told The Plain Dealer that he never tested positive for any substance while at Utah:

"The whole time I was in Utah, I never ended up testing positive for any administrative test given by the administrative people there,'' Gordon said Thursday. "It was just their choice to test me and just make sure I was staying clean.''

The only player selected in the 2012 Supplemental Draft, Gordon also admitted to The Plain Dealer that his two reported marijuana failures ultimately got him booted from Baylor's program, which had obviously become common knowledge. Vowing to make good on the Browns' obvious vote of confidence in his abilities however, Gordon has repeatedly stated his intention to remain clean, and he looks poised to put his checkered past behind him.

For more on the selection of Gordon, stay with this StoryStream. For more on the Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. And for more NFL news this offseason, be sure to visit SB Nation's NFL hub.

Josh Gordon Says He Will Stay Clean For Browns After Spotty Past With Marijuana

Josh Gordon had a hard road to the NFL before getting selected by the Cleveland Browns in the second round of the 2012 Supplemental Draft. He saw a family apartment burn, had to transfer schools once and almost did again, and was caught twice on drug tests after smoking marijuana. It was the marijuana that eventually ended his career at Baylor, keeping him out of the picture during Robert Griffin III's tear through college football in 2011.

It was a big decision to go into the Supplemental Draft with no guarantee that he would be picked, but he was rewarded in a big way by Cleveland. As Cleveland.com reported on Thursday, Gordon is thankful to the Browns and vowed in a phone interview that he wouldn't go back to his old ways:

"Despite everything I've been through, despite being a kid with a spotty background, the Cleveland Browns stuck their neck out and risked taking me and put their faith and belief in me, and I won't let them down," Gordon said in a phone interview. "I'm grateful, and I know I can't go back to being the person I used to be."

Him being forced to leave Baylor was tough on everyone, especially his coach Art Briles. Art gave a shining review of Gordon's character, which probably didn't hurt his standing with the Browns as they were scouting him:

"It killed me, it really did, because as a coach, I think we're in the kid-saving business," said Briles, who's remained in close contact. "I know Josh's character, I know his heart, I know his mind, I know his soul and it's all good."

The Browns have to hope that he'll keep good on his promise, as they used a valuable second round pick from next season's draft to pick him up. Clearly, they saw something in him to spend that pick, and clearly he's grateful. It remains to be seen if he can reward the Browns and stay away from marijuana as his NFL career starts.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

2012 NFL Supplemental Draft: Gordon Pleasantly "Shocked" To Be Second-Round Draft Pick

A talented player with question marks like former Baylor wide receiver Josh Gordon, turns the NFL Supplemental Draft into a big game of chicken among teams looking to add talent with the lowest possible draft pick. But the Cleveland Browns weren't playing around with Gordon, instead jumping at the chance to take the 6'4" wide out in the second round of the supplemental draft.

Gordon isn't one to lack for confidence, but even he was surprised when the Browns snapped him up early in the second round. According to Pro Football Talk, Gordon expressed his "shock" during a radio interview in this hometown of Houston.

"I was more than shocked for sure," Gordon told FOX 26 Sports in Houston after being picked in the second round of the 2012 supplemental draft. "I definitely didn't think that high, but I'm thankful for the opportunity. . . . I'm definitely in shock. It still probably hasn't hit me yet."

It will hit Gordon later in July when he tries to put his checkered past behind him for good and gets to work with the Browns in training camp.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Can Josh Gordon be a Game Changer for the Young Browns Offense?

The Browns selected Josh Gordon in the second round of the 2012 Supplemental Draft on Thursday afternoon, a huge vote of confidence in a guy who has not played football in almost two years.

Gordon started out his college career at Baylor where he looked like he was emerging as a young star in that offense prior to leaving after the 2010 season and transferring to Utah.

Though on paper, Gordon’s departure from Baylor was a curious one, the end result didn’t wind up hurting his draft stock all that much. In fact, the mystery of what he could have been probably propelled him to an even higher draft status than he otherwise would have been.

Gordon has fantastic overall measurables, big hands, and really good athletic ability. All he really lacks is experience, and the thought of what he cold become tantalized the Browns enough that they used a second round pick in next year’s draft to get him.

That’s surprising to me for a variety of reasons, the main one being that the Browns’ pick in next year’s draft could be pretty high. They have an up-and-coming defense and a couple of young offensive stars with which to build around, and with Brandon Weeden’s age, the time to win is clearly now or in the not-so-distant future. However, the choice to drop a second rounder from next year’s slew of picks is a curious one.

Still, it’s well understood what the Browns are trying to do. In 2011, they selected Greg Little with a second round pick, and in 2012, they brought in Miami’s Travis Benjamin in the third round. Add Josh Gordon to the mix, and the Browns obviously feel like they have a great young trio of receivers. With those three guys, it will be extremely intriguing to see what they do in the pre-season and in training camp.

What the Browns are getting in Gordon may be unknown, but at least on paper, they believe he can start and he really enjoyed meeting the team.

“I enjoyed my visit there last week, and was very impressed with all of the people I met, including Mr. Heckert,” Gordon said. “I have also had the chance to speak with Coach Shurmur on several occasions and I am looking forward to the opportunity to play for him.”

Gordon hasn’t played in an actual football game since the 2010 season when Baylor concluded a pretty average season with a bowl game against Illinois, and he missed out on being on the receiving end of a Heisman Trophy winning quarterback last season. That being said, Gordon hasn’t been inactive. He practiced all of last season with the Utah Utes football team, and he was planning on using his redshirt last season and playing with the Utes in 2012. I am not sure Gordon could have done much better than being a second round pick in the 2013 draft had he actually played, but the Browns expect him to be an immediate contributor despite the time off.

“Anytime you pick somebody that early, you’re hoping he’s a good football player, and that’s what we think Josh is,” Heckert said. “… Most years, there’s not a player of Josh’s caliber in the supplemental draft, so you don’t hear about it very much. But we look at it as a positive. We’re getting a really good football player and we’re getting him a year early.”

Gordon is going to need to learn fast, and he’s got a bunch of young new teammates to do it with. Brandon Weeden, Trent Richardson, Greg Little, Joe Thomas, and now Gordon provide the foundation for the future of this team, and the Browns need him to be a game changer.

Athletically, Gordon appears to be up to the task, and from what I have heard and read about his pre-draft interviews, he is a sharp kid. This is an exciting move for Browns fans, though they might be disappointed to not have the pick next offseason. Hopefully Gordon produces well enough to keep the fan base at ease.

Browns Hope Josh Gordon Will Be Part Of Offense's Foundation, Believe He Can Start

The Cleveland Browns were the only team to make a selection in the 2012 NFL Supplemental Draft, bringing in former Baylor wide receiver Josh Gordon. Unlike 2011, in which the Oakland Raiders gave up a third-round pick for the right to draft Terrelle Pryor, who might not have even been signed as a free agent by the rest of the league, many figured Gordon could go as high as the second round.

He'll join a Browns offense that has been rebuilt from the ground up, or rather is being rebuilt presently as the two catalysts for rebuilding have yet to play a down in the NFL. That is rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden and rookie running back Trent Richardson. Now, they've got rookie receiver Josh Gordon and also second-year receiver Greg Little.

Cleveland held a press conference on Thursday to talk about why they drafted Gordon, and it seems like they're putting a lot of hope into him. May Kay Cabot had some Tweets from the conference, mainly citing general manager Tom Heckert. For one, Hecker believes that Weeden, Richardson and Gordon are the foundation:

Heckert/Gordon said he hopes Weeden, Richardson and Gordon are foundation of where they want to go offensively.

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) July 12, 2012

Heckert also said that Gordon has the making of a No. 1 receiver, saying "He can start in the NFL, that's obviously what we think," according to another Tweet from Cabot. Heckert noted the similarities with Little and his missed time, but noted that Gordon practiced with Utah the entire time he wasn't allowed to play.

On top of all that, Heckert said that they were going to take Gordon in the second round no matter what, meaning that they would likely have done so in the 2012 NFL Draft, and also regardless as to whether or not they heard something about another team potentially targeting him in the supplemental draft.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

VIDEO: Highlights Of Your Newest Cleveland Brown, Josh Gordon

2012 NFL Supplemental Draft: Cleveland Browns Take Josh Gordon With Second-Round Pick

The 2012 NFL Supplemental Draft is presently underway. The first round passed without any players being selected, which isn't a shocker because that would require a team to forfeit an actual first-round pick for the 2013 NFL Draft. The only player that had significant buzz was former Baylor WR Josh Gordon. In fact, he may be the only player taken throughout the rest of the draft.

Gordon did get drafted, in the second round by none other than the Cleveland Browns, as Adam Schefter reports via Twitter:

And in today's supplemental draft, former Baylor WR Josh Gordon goes to...cleveland in round 2.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 12, 2012

There were reports that the Browns were interested in Gordon prior to the draft starting, and there were also people suggesting pre-draft that Gordon could go as high as the second round, with most being of the opinion that he wouldn't make it past the fourth round. What's slightly shocking is that the Browns were willing to give up that second-round pick.

That isn't to say he's a bad fit or anything of that nature, it's just that the Browns have two receivers who are very similar to Gordon already on the roster in Mohamed Massaqoui and Greg Little. The latter actually measures up with Gordon almost exactly, with a 40-yard dash time that's .01 seconds behind his. Still, it's hard to argue with the Browns trying to get young talent to help out rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

2012 NFL Supplemental Draft: Start Time, Coverage And More

The 2012 NFL Supplemental Draft is on Thursday, just a couple hours away, and there's actually a little bit of hype for this one. Terrelle Pryor was the only player selected in the 2011 supplemental draft, and it's likely that only one player goes in this year's draft as well, but he's a player with considerable hype and fanfare surrounding him.

That player is Josh Gordon, the player with the best chance of being selected. Some people have suggested he could go as early as the second round, which would mean a team has to give up a second-round pick in the actual NFL Draft. It's a tough decision to make, but there's plenty to like about Gordon and what he can do.

He's got great size, speed and athleticism in general. He's 6-foot-3, weighs 224 pounds and posted a 4.52 40-yard dash time at a recent workout. He was dismissed from Baylor in August 2011 for off-the-field issues, but prior to that, he hauled in 42 receptions for 714 yards and seven touchdowns in 2010.

On top of all that, the Browns have already noted their interest in Gordon, so they might be in on things, given the relative weakness they have at the wide receiver position.

The 2012 NFL Supplemental draft will begin at 1:00 p.m. Eastern on Thursday. NFL.com will have all the details as the picks -f if there are any - are made.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

NFL Supplemental Draft: Browns Interested In Josh Gordon

The Cleveland Browns have been linked to wide receiver Josh Gordon in the 2012 NFL Supplemental Draft. Gordon, formerly of Baylor and Utah, will have a pro day workout in Houston on Tuesday and the Browns will be one of the teams in attendance, via Mary Kay Cabot of The Plain Dealer.

Gordon could be selected as high as the second round and probably won't last past the fourth. He has more buzz than anybody going into Thursday's draft.

Gordon never actually played for Utah after transferring from Baylor before last season. Baylor coach Art Briles suspended him indefinitely after a marijuana arrest in 2011, then had to sit out a year with the Utes. He declared for the draft for financial reasons.

If the Browns do pay a high price for Gordon, it will be because of his immense potential. He has tremendous physical tools and reportedly runs the 40 in under 4.4 seconds.

For more on the Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Browns Offseason: QB Colt McCoy Wants A Chance To Earn Starting Job Browns

Cleveland Browns quarterback Colt McCoy started 13 games last season but was never able to seize control of the position which led the Browns to draft Brandon Weeden in the first round of the 2012 NFL draft.

Weeden and fellow first-rounder, running back Trent Richardson remain unsigned with training camp scheduled to begin in late July. While McCoy remains on the roster, he will not be considered the incumbent starter when camp begins as the Browns hope the rookie Weeden, who is actually three years older than McCoy, can take the starting job and run with it.

McCoy is ready to make Weeden earn that starting role though instead of just giving the position to the rook.

"That's part of my nature," McCoy said Tuesday according to the Joey D. Richards of ReporterNews.com. "You're getting everything I have, whether that's working, preparing, studying or practicing. Unfortunately, a lot of things are out of my control. The main thing for me is not to worry about those things I can't control. I have to go in, do my job and have high character and compete my tail off, if the opportunity's available. Other than that, there's not much you can do. So that's what I try to do every day."

The Browns begin camp on Saturday, July 28th with a morning practice starting at 8:45 a.m. ET at their training facility in Berea, Ohio.

For more on the Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Cleveland Browns Cornerbacks Come In At 16th In SB Nation Rankings

Cleveland Browns, Brandon Weeden Deal Stalled Over Guaranteed Fourth Year

The Cleveland Browns have yet to sign quarterback Brandon Weeden. At issue, according to a report from the Cleveland Plain Dealer, is the matter of a guaranteed fourth year on his rookie contract.

The league's new rookie salary system created slotting amounts for rookies, eliminating much of the negotiation that used to hold up contract talks well into the summer months. Most picks in the top of the first round receive all four years guaranteed, but the last year of the deal is often not guaranteed for players drafted later in the first round. Weeden was picked at No. 22.

Last year's first-round pick, defensive tackle Phil Taylor, missed the early days of training camp over the same issue. The Browns and Taylor ultimately found a middle ground.

Weeden expressed confidence that a deal would happen, but did say:

"We're working. It takes two sides, though.''

At 28, Weeden's playing days and ability to demand a rich contract in the prime of his career are different that other rookies who typically come into the league at 22-years-old.

Cleveland's first pick in the draft, running back Trent Richards has yet to sign a contract as well. According to the same report, the holdup over his deal is "offset language" which has to do with how much money the team would be on the hook for if he signs elsewhere in his fourth season.

For more on the Browns, visit Dawgs By Nature.

Browns Offseason: Training Camp Schedule Released

The Cleveland Browns released their training camp schedule on Thursday. Camp will begin on July 28 and run until August 22.

Training camp will take place in Berea, Ohio. For many fans it will be their first chance to see Brandon Weeden and Trent Richardson.

For more on the Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Cleveland Not Interested In Vikings' Percy Harvin

Percy Harvin wants out of Minnesota, but don't expect him to end up in Cleveland. The Browns may need an upgrade at wide receiver, but even if Vikings general manager Rick Spielman backs down from his assertion that he won't trade Harvin, it is unlikely that Cleveland would be interested, via Tom Reed of The Plain Dealer.

It's believed the Browns do not have interest in acquiring the wideout, who reportedly asked for a trade after citing multiple grievances with the Vikings on Tuesday.

Many outside the organization believe the Browns could use an upgrade at the position. The team was tied atop the NFL in dropped passes last season. But dealing for the versatile Harvin -- who caught 87 passes for 967 yards and six touchdowns last season, while rushing for an additional 345 yards -- is not expected to be in their plans.

One reason for Cleveland's lack of interest may be that Harvin reportedly had a rocky relationship with Browns offensive coordinator Brad Childress, formerly the coach of the Vikings.

For more on the Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Kyrie Irving, Tristan Thompson Visit Trent Richardson & Browns' Rookie Class

Browns Interested In Reconciling With Legend Jim Brown

On Thursday, Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren stated that he was interested in having estranged legend Jim Brown come back into fold and be a part of the Browns' organization. The two sides have been at odds since 2010 when Holmgren reduced Brown's role with the club, which prompted Brown to quit because he felt disrespected.

Now it seems as though Holmgren would like to mend the rift. Via the Cleveland Plain Dealer:

Holmgren said at his press conference Thursday, "I would like Jim Brown to come and be a part of this and feel comfortable doing that and I would welcome him with open arms. How the Browns view Jim Brown hasn't changed and will never change. I would love to see Jim Brown walk in right now or come to the Legends thing, be a part of this.''

Holmgren isn't the only one interested in reconciling. When reached for comment by the Plain Dealer, Brown graciously made it clear that he would like to be apart of the family again.

Brown, reached at home late Thursday night by the Plain Dealer's Branson Wright, said, "If that's what Holmgren said, it just shows a lot of class on his part. I've always been attracted to anyone who has the class to reach out. I have nothing to hold me back from being a positive person in any type of circumstances. I am a Cleveland Brown, but it's always up to those in control to decide what they want to do.''

Mike Holmgren's Plan Is To Keep 3 Quarterbacks, But Things Can Change

Cleveland Browns team president Mike Holmgren spoke to the media on Thursday during a rare press conference, and he specifically talked about the quarterback situation. Holmgren discussed a variety of issues for nearly an hour, but the quarterbacks were a constant topic.

Currently the Browns have Seneca Wallace, Colt McCoy and Brandon Weeden "battling" it out at the quarterback position.

There was speculation that the Browns might deal either Wallace or McCoy, but Holmgren said that the current plan is to keep all three quarterbacks, but added "plans change." Holmgren said that he likes McCoy but realized last season was tough.

Holmgren also went on to talk about rookie Weeden, and he is high on the rookie and feels that he has the talent to come in and start right away:

"His skill level is excellent,'' Holmgren said. "He passes the ball easily. He's as prepared to come in and start as any rookie I've seen in a long time.''

Browns Offseason: Seneca Wallace Doesn't Want To Be No. 3 QB, Expects He Or McCoy To Be Moved

With the Cleveland Browns wrapping up Organized Team Activities on Tuesday morning, much of the attention was focused upon the starting quarterback position. After selecting 28-year old Brandon Weeden with the No. 22 overall selection in April's draft, the writing has been on the wall that the Browns hope Weeden will become the franchise's quarterback of the future.

This, of course, causes problems for the incumbents Seneca Wallace and Colt McCoy. Following practice on Tuesday, Wallace was outspoken in his beliefs that by the start of the season all three quarterbacks who attended OTAs will not be with the club. He also made it clear that he has no desire to be a No. 3 quarterback, which contradicted Browns head coach Pat Shurmer's belief that Wallace would accept the role.

Wallace's comments via Cleveland.com:

"Can any of you guys see all three of us being here?'' Wallace said. "You've written about it, so that answers your question...Probably not,'' he said.

"No, not really (I don't want to be the No. 3),'' said Wallace. "That's something that obviously for no reason you go down to the third guy, and we all know the third guy doesn't dress on Sundays and if that comes down to that decision, obviously neither one of us (him or McCoy)wants to be that third guy.''

When Colt McCoy was asked about the situation he was determined to win the starting job.

"When I come out to practice, in my mind, I'm the starter,'' said McCoy.

He said he hasn't contemplated asking for a trade when Weeden is named the No. 1, which Shurmur has indicated will happen "sooner than later.''

"My mind is on OTAs,'' he said.

Weeden was still taking first team drills on Tuesday and stated that he still doesn't feel like the starter yet despite making progress in his development.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Interesting Argument for the Browns Making the 2012 Playoffs

Are the Cleveland Browns good enough to go to the playoffs?

With a revamped defense, a new look offense, and a rejuvenated fan base, it may not be out of the question. Mike Hoag of Bleacher Report makes the remark that the Browns have a potentially similar situation to that of last year’s AFC Breakout team, the Cincinnati Bengals:

Can Brandon Weeden drastically improve the potency of the aerial attack? Will he make those around him better with his leadership and strong downfield delivery?

Weeden is the key. Everything is riding on the 28-year old rookie.

Is it playoffs or bust for the Cleveland Browns in 2012?

A season ago, the Cincinnati Bengals rode a stout defense, a rookie quarterback and a rookie No. 1 wide receiver to the playoffs.

Why is it so crazy to think the Browns can’t do the same this year?

It’s not crazy.

I guess I had never really thought of it that way. The Bengals had a huge year from rookies A.J. Green and Andy Dalton, where Green was expected to be really good but Dalton wasn’t even assured to be the starter going into the year. It looked like the Bengals would potentially be one of the worst teams in the entire NFL before they pulled it together and started winning some ball games.

The Browns have a rookie quarterback in Brandon Weeden, who was arguably much better in his last two years of college football than Dalton with equally as big of wins. I do not think Greg Little is as good or talented as A.J. Green, obviously, but that doesn’t mean he can’t have a similar impact.

One thing the Browns have that the Bengals don’t or didn’t is a running back like Trent Richardson. Richardson could come in and realistically be one of the top 10 backs in the NFL in 2012 as a rookie. He is that good.

Where the Browns need to improve is their overall defensive play. They play in a division with two pretty old teams in Pittsburgh and Baltimore, both of whom have some injury concerns going into training camp.

If the Browns can take advantage and win some games early, they may surprise some people in 2012. It’s certainly an interesting argument, and the chips would have to fall into place, but it’s certainly not out of the question for the Browns to surprise some people and be a playoff contender this season if their young players exceed expectations.

Browns Offseason: Cleveland Needs a Breakout Year from Greg Little

In the 2012 NFL Draft, it was rumored that the Cleveland Browns were interested in selecting a number of different receivers, namely Justin Blackmon or Kendall Wright with one of their two first round picks. Neither player is wearing brown this season and, to the surprise of many, the Browns’ receiver group looks largely the same as it did last season.

It is considered one of the team’s major positions of weakness, and that is why Cleveland is going to need a jolt of energy from second year player Greg Little, who had a very solid rookie year considering the circumstances surrounding the entire league.

The Browns obviously have high hopes for the former second round pick out of North Carolina. Little is a bigger receiver who is every bit as capable of being as good or better than a guy like Brandon Marshall, whom he might compare favorably to.

But not only do the Browns have high hopes for Little, they need him to have a big year. Their receivers are very questionable at this point in time, and they aren’t going to break the bank for any veteran free agents. Rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden will get a taste of what it was like to be Colt McCoy last season, constantly under pressure with not a lot of help on the outside.

That being said, I feel like Little is a very likely candidate to break out. The Browns’ offense isn’t going to be a monster passing offense I don’t think, but I feel like Little is due for a thousand yard season and potentially a very under-the-radar type of season. Toward the end of the 2011 campaign, we got to see what Little is capable of when the Browns played against Arizona and the rookie receiver had 131 yards on five receptions.

That is the type of performance the Browns selected him for, and that’s why so many scouts spoke so highly of him coming out of North Carolina.

Browns Offseason: Pat Shurmur Says He Considers Trent Richardson The Starting Running Back

The Cleveland Browns are eager to name a starting quarterback before training camp actually begins, and most assume that Brandon Weeden will get the nod over Colt McCoy. There's a far-less publicized battle going on at another position though ... running back. That's right, the Browns have a battle between Trent Richardson and .. well, somebody.

Richardson has been taking starting reps and head coach Pat Shurmur has declined to simply name him the starter outright. Well, until Thursday, that is. Surprising exactly nobody, Shurmur told the media that he considers Richardson the Browns' starting running back, according to a Tweet from Nate Ulrich:

Does HC Pat Shurmur consider Trent Richardson the #Browns’ starting RB?: "I think that’s probably fair to say," Shurmur said.

— Nate Ulrich (@NateUlrichABJ) June 7, 2012

And not a single soul was shocked. Still, it's good to see that the Browns are happy with the progress of Richardson after trading up one spot in the 2012 NFL Draft to make him the No. 3 overall selection. It should be interesting to see Richardson and Weeden out there leading the offense as rookies.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Browns Minicamp: Pat Shurmur Hopes To Name Starting Quarterback Early In Process

Depending on who you ask, the Cleveland Browns either have a quarterback battle on their hands or a quarterback show. Some believe that Colt McCoy and Brandon Weeden are actually slugging it out for the opportunity to be named the starting quarterback for the 2012 season, while others believe it's more of a formality than anything.

At any rate, the Browns are insistent that it's an actual, factual competition, though head coach Pat Shurmur is looking to wrap it up sooner rather than later. According to CBS Cleveland, Shurmur wants to name a starter "sooner than later." The report goes on to talk about the fact that the Browns like everything they've seen from Weeden, but that they don't want to just hand over the starting gig without him showing anything.

It would set a bad precedent to just name him the starter when the previous starter is still around, but just about everybody feels like it's Weeden's job to lose. Mary Kay Cabot of The Plain Dealer takes it a step further by suggesting that Shurmur hinted that he wanted to name Weeden the starter by training camp.

Weeden has taken more reps as the starter than McCoy recently. The first week saw McCoy starting, but Weeden has quickly taken over that role and by all accounts is outperforming McCoy out there.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Brandon Weeden Sports Indians Shirt At Browns Minicamp

Browns Minicamp: Brandon Weeden Takes 1st-Team Reps, Phil Dawson In Attendance

The Cleveland Browns are hosting their first mandatory minicamp since drafting Brandon Weeden and Trent Richardson in the 1st Round of the 2012 Draft, and the new rookies are once again getting first-team reps. Weeden and Colt McCoy have alternated playing with the first team in the two prior sets of OTAs, and it's likely head coach Pat Shurmur will continue to do that this week in Berea. Browns coach Pat Shumur told the media not to read anything into who was taking the reps with the first team, via Tom Withers:

Weeden took snaps with #Browns starting offense. Coach Pat Shurmur warned not to make too much of who plays when.

— Tom Withers (@twithersAP) June 5, 2012

Unsurprisingly, Trent Richardson and Mitchell Schwartz are also taking reps with the first team. Along with the rookies, everyone has reported for the mandatory minicamp, including kicker Phil Dawson, who had not attended OTAs.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. More news and analysis on the NFL in general as minicamps start to heat up can be found at SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

VIDEO: Trent Richardson Sits Down With SB Nation, Ready To Become The Face Of Cleveland

Browns OTAs: Healthy, RB Montario Hardesty 'Ready To Compete' For Spot

Cleveland Browns running back Montario Hardesty is, at long last, healthy. And the third-year running back is excited to compete for a spot in the backfield, according to an article from ClevelandBrowns.com.

Last season, Hardesty appeared in 10 games and had 266 yards on 88 carries. Those are pedestrian numbers, sure, but he was still rebounding from an ACL injury he sustained during the 2010 preseason.

Now, he says, there are no lingering health issues:

"The biggest thing is, I've been able to go back and train how I train in the offseason, get fully confident and go out there and push myself, things I couldn't do last year," Hardesty said Wednesday. "I was hurt. I missed a year and last year, I was hurt. I'm not going to dwell on that at all. It was something that I had to go through. I got through it and now, I'm healthy. I'm ready to come here and compete for a spot on this team.....

"There is plenty of work for two backs in this league, especially in our conference, the way the teams pound the ball," Hardesty said. "You can look at every team from top to bottom and see that. It's good for our team and our running back situation...."

Hardesty, who also had a torn ACL while playing for the Tennessee Volunteers, went on to say that he is excited about the chance to play with the Browns' first-round draft pick, running back Trent Richardson.

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Browns Offseason: Brandon Weeden Taking First Team Snaps, Colt McCoy Throwing 'Wobbly Ducks'

The Cleveland Browns have a quarterback battle on their hands, if you believe that when they say it. It's debatable at this point whether or not the team is just going through the motions to replace 2011 starter Colt McCoy with first-round draftee Brandon Weeden. McCoy had been taking first team snaps at quarterback a week ago, but as of Wednesday, it's Weeden, according to a Tweet from Mary Kay Cabot.

She says that Weeden is taking the first team 11-on-11 reps, though it could be that they're alternating. It's significant that Weeden is already taking first team reps from McCoy, who has a significant head start. That head start doesn't appear to be helping him, if you believe Darl Ruiter's Twitter, in which he references McCoy throwing up "wobbly ducks."

He also followed that up with a more direct Tweet in regards to the QB competition:

QB competition should be over - discernible difference in tightness, accuracy, timing and strength in throws from Weeden vs McCoy

— Daryl Ruiter (@RuiterWrongFAN) May 30, 2012

It sure does look more and more like Weeden will be the guy going forward, but there's a lot of time left yet, especially if there's an actual QB battle going on. Also of note from OTAs is the fact that Trent Richardson - the No. 3 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft - is with the first team, unsurprisingly. On top of that, Mary Kay Cabot adds that Mitchell Schwartz is in the startling lineup as well - at right tackle.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

VIDEO: Trent Richardson Interviews Brandon Weeden For SB Nation

Jim Brown On Trent Richardson: 'I Don't See Anything Outstanding'

In a Thursday article from ESPNCleveland.com, famed Cleveland Browns running back Jim Brown elaborated on why he isn't wowed by Browns rookie running back Trent Richardson.

Last month Brown called Richardson "ordinary." There appeared to be no malice in the comments, just a yawn at the player the Browns so openly coveted.

Brown discussed the issue further with ESPNCleveland:

"When you think of greatness and the great backs, they all had some individual traits that you can identify - quickness, balance, power, speed," Brown said. "I think the kid is a good working back, and if you've got everything else around him he can play his role. But when it comes to outstanding, I don't see anything outstanding about him. It's not said in a cruel manner. He's very efficient, and that's what you want."...

Brown also had a few words to say about the organization:

"What have I said about the Browns other than the fact that Richardson is an ordinary back? There's so much I could say. So you tell all those people that want to look at me, look at what you've got. You're sitting on a mess. You've got a guy that doesn't give interviews except in other cities. I ask all the people in Cleveland, do you get the impression that Mr. Holmgren wants to be there? If you do, then tell me."

The Browns traded three late-round picks to snag Richardson, who was also apparently on the wish list of a few other teams.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, go to Dawgs By Nature. You can also get all of your professional football news over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Colt McCoy Looking For 'Fair Competition' With Brandon Weeden

Colt McCoy getting the starting snaps during OTAs for the Cleveland Browns surprised people, since the general consensus after the team drafted Brandon Weeden in the first round out of Oklahoma State was that there would be an immediate handing of the job to the 28 year old.

The NFL doesn't exactly work like that, and the two are now in competition for that starting spot. McCoy was rumored to be traded away after the draft selection happened, but he came back regardless of the rumors because he just wanted a chance to get that starting spot, even in competition.

"It is what it is," he said. "It happened and I've just got to go out and compete. I had to earn my job at (Texas) every year basically except for my senior year," he said. "I had to earn my job in high school. I had to play when I was a sophomore. I don't want this to be a situation where it's me vs. him or him vs. me. I want it to be a situation of -- and I think we can all agree to this -- let's help our team the most. Let's make it about the Cleveland Browns being a great football team next year. And if that's the case I'm all in."

Keeping a split out of the locker room as some people expected is a good sign for the team going forward. McCoy is still not the favorite to get the job from Weeden, but his enthusiasm for the team even after they drafted a seeming replacement for him is a good start as he tries to win a starting position again and the hearts of Browns fans in his third year with the team.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. More news and analysis on the NFL in general as organized team activities start to heat up can be found at SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

VIDEO: Scott Fujita Addresses 3 Game Suspension For Role In Saints Bounty Scandal

Cleveland Browns 2012 Roster Analysis: Quarterback

Much has been made of the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback situation since 1999, but that’s mainly because they have been unable to find a guy to stick with as the “franchise” player for all this time.

In 2010, I thought the Browns made a huge move going and getting former Texas quarterback Colt McCoy, one of the most productive and winningest quarterbacks in college history. McCoy obviously ended his college career on a sour note, but the third round pick of the Browns started a few games in his rookie season, and ignited a fire in his teammates.

At least, that’s how it looked from the outside looking in. From the inside out, it is obvious that in two years, the Browns have seen enough from McCoy that they don’t want him as their starter anymore. Not only did the Browns spend a first round pick on Oklahoma State’s Brandon Weeden, but Cleveland GM Tom Heckert was quoted as saying they expect Weeden to be the starter when the season kicks off in September.

Despite the lack of confidence in McCoy, I think he has handled it like a professional. I haven’t heard anything from McCoy’s camp except how hard he is working to get better, and he is still working with the starting unit while Weeden works his way to the top of the depth chart.

According to a report from CBSSports.com, McCoy received a phone call after Weeden was drafted by the Browns telling him just to “come in and compete.” As a competitor, there’s nothing that McCoy could ask for other than that, though there were rumors that he was previously told the team would not draft a quarterback in the first round.

In the end, it really didn’t matter whether the Browns took Weeden with the 22nd pick or with their second round pick—the writing was on the wall for McCoy. There were rumors that the Browns and Packers may be discussing a trade for McCoy, but or now, he remains a Cleveland Brown, awkward or not.

Obviously, the Browns selected quarterback Brandon Weeden in the first round to be their quarterback of the future, but since he will be 29 in his rookie year, they also drafted him to be their quarterback of the present. Since Weeden will be 33 or 34 at the end of his rookie contract, the Browns have to believe that he can get them to and win them a Super Bowl within the next five years.

Jon Gruden laid it out perfectly in his QB Camp with Weeden—he beat everyone he faced last year (except for Iowa State) including Andrew Luck’s Stanford Cardinal and Robert Griffin III’s Baylor Bears. Weeden is able to sling the ball around the field as well as pretty much anyone in the draft, and if he was a first round pick at age 28, can you imagine if he were four or five years younger?

He clearly has the tools required to succeed, but he’s going to have to develop faster than most rookies. The Browns have done a pretty good job of getting some competent targets around Weeden as he starts his career as the Browns’ quarterback, but many of those players are still under-developed at this point.

Cleveland drafted running back Trent Richardson, as well as receivers Travis Benjamin and Greg Little with premiere picks over the last two years, but an underrated addition was last year’s fourth round pick—tight end Jordan Cameron. Cameron has unbelievable athletic ability and should be able to contribute a lot more in 2012 than he did in 2011.

So, despite the overall questions concerning Cleveland’s skill positions, it’s not like the Browns haven’t used picks on guys. They are investing high draft picks in skill players, they just either haven’t developed or turned out to be flops.

Also still on Cleveland’s roster is long-time backup Seneca Wallace, who is certainly still capable of starting if the need should arise. Wallace has been in the league for nine seasons since leaving Iowa State, and has definitely been one of the better backups in the NFL throughout that time. His most extensive action was back in 2008 when he started eight games for the Seattle Seahawks, where he developed his relationship with Mike Holmgren, who is once again his boss in Cleveland.

The Browns also have former Duke quarterback and Rams pre-season star Thaddeus Lewis, who is a candidate for the Browns’ practice squad or a third quarterback role depending what they decide to do with Colt McCoy.

Overall, the Browns’ quarterback situation is in a “wait and see” type of mode right now. The general consensus seems to be that Brandon Weeden will take over as the starter sooner rather than later, but Colt McCoy’s future is still uncertain after that. Will the Browns trade him? This will be an interesting storyline to follow as the offseason develops further and rosters begin to take shape.

Browns Quarterback Competition Began On Tuesday As OTAs Get Underway

Following the NFL Draft and the selection of Oklahoma State quarterback Brandon Weeden at the 22nd overall slot, the writing on the wall started to appear for the Cleveland Browns and the future of the quarterback position. That writing became crystal clear after general manager Tom Heckert outright exclaimed on Monday night that he expected Weeden to be under center Week one.

However, when organized team activities opened for the Browns on Tuesday, it was incumbent quarterback Colt McCoy taking the first team snaps.

#browns qb Brandon Weeden took full team snaps after McCoy. Making him earn it.

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) May 22, 2012

According to Weeden, he is just fine with that. The 28-year old rookie-to-be expressed that he doesn't want anything handed to him on a silver platter and looks forward to competing for the position. He went on to say that he and McCoy have a cordial relationship and nothing out of the ordinary has occurred between the two players.

#browns qb Brandon Weeden said he prefers to win the job rather than having it handed it to him.

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) May 22, 2012

For more on the Cleveland Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. More news and analysis on the NFL in general as rookie minicamps start to heat up can be found at SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

VIDEO: Trent Richardson Takes The Mic To Interview Fellow Rookies

Cleveland Browns GM 'Fully Expects' Brandon Weeden To Be Starting Quarterback

When the Cleveland Browns drafted quarterback Brandon Weeden out of Oklahoma State with the No. 22 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, Colt McCoy's future as the starting quarterback was immediately put into question. The night before the quarterbacks will participate with the full team together for the first time, Cleveland Browns GM Tom Heckert made it clear who the organization expects to be under center this season:

#Browns GM Tom Heckert clarified the QB situation: "The best guy is going to play, but we fully expect Brandon Weeden to be the guy.''

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) May 21, 2012

Of course, while he can't be happy with the lack of confidence in him, Colt McCoy insists that he's working harder than ever and is prepared to battle the rookie for the starting position.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. More news and analysis on the NFL in general as rookie minicamps start to heat up can be found at SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

Trent Richardson, Brandon Weeden Hone Media Skills At NFLPA Rookie Event

Cleveland Browns RB Trent Richardson Ready To Lead, Carry His New Team

The Cleveland Browns are counting on big things from running back Trent Richardson, rookie or not. Richardson discussed his new team and his role with the Browns on Friday at the NFLPA Rookie Premiere event in Los Angeles.

While some have derided the Browns' organization recently, Richardson thought differently about the team and its fans.

"They're hungry," Richardson said. "They're waiting to win. It's probably the closest thing you can get to a college atmosphere."

As for his role in getting the Browns back on the winning side of the ledger, he's ready to do whatever it takes, even if it means taking on more than his share of the load.

"I'm ready to take it on," he said. "I'm ready to carry the team if I have to."

Browns rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden, the team's other 1st-round pick, offered some high praise for his new teammate.

"I thought he was one of the best backs in the country, one of the best players in the county," Weeden said if Richardson. "He's obviously a freak. When you hand the ball to him, there's something different to him."

For more on rookie minicamp and all news related to the Cleveland Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. More news and analysis on the NFL in general as rookie minicamps start to heat up can be found at SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

Cleveland Browns Mini-camp: New RB Adonis Thomas Scouting Report

The Cleveland Browns signed local product Adonis Thomas, a running back out of Toledo who has big play ability but is very undersized. The draft is one of my favorite things to talk about, and I was surprised to see Thomas didn’t add much weight over the offseason in his preparations for the NFL.

What Thomas lacks in size (5’9" 185 pounds) he makes up for with freakish athletic ability. He runs a 4.45 second 40 yard dash, and has a 38-inch vertical leap to go along with throwing up 19 bench press reps of 225 pounds. For a man of that size, that’s impressive.

During last season, I did a scouting report on Thomas, who was one of the more exciting and productive playmakers I watched in college football last year.

Small back with speed to burn who can make plays and hurt you in so many different ways. Averaging over six yards per carry both of the last two seasons, and has a career high 11 touchdown runs in 2011. Has received very limited carries in college, so his wear-and-tear should not be too bad heading into the pros, but his size does pose cause for some concern because he is not a thick back. He could probably add 10-15 pounds of muscle and maintain his speed. Good receiver out of the backfield with 59 catches over the last two seasons, along with three touchdowns. With the way defenses are being built to stop the pass first, he might be able to get away with playing at this size for a year, maybe two in the NFL. One of the best playmakers in the country when he has the ball in his hands.

Overall, I think Thomas is a great guy to have at least for a camp body. He may be too small to make it in the NFL initially, but you stash a guy like this on the practice squad for a year and develop him physically, and he can become a huge steal as a second year player.

Perhaps he could even contribute as a gunner on special teams or as a punt/kick returner as well. There are a lot of options for a guy who makes plays like Thomas, so I like this pickup for the Browns a lot.

Browns Cut RB Armond Smith, Sign RB Adonis Thomas And LB JoJo Dickson

On Monday afternoon, the Cleveland Browns decided to part ways with running back Armond Smith who made the team in the 2011-12 season as an undrafted free agent out of Union College. The five-foot-nine, 194 pound back played in three games last season, rushing for two yards on three carries and making one catch for no gain. He spent the final 11 games of the season on the practice squad.

In his place the team decided to sign another undrafted free agent, Toledo running back Adonis Thomas. Thomas came to rookie camp on a tryout basis and has seemingly impressed the coaching staff enough to bring him into training camp. He rushed for 1,071 yards last season at Toledo.

In addition, the team also signed six-foot-one, 245 pound inside linebacker JoJo Dickson. Dickson was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2011 by the Jacksonville Jaguars. After being waived, then resigned, then waived again by the Jaguars, Dickson will try and earn a more permanent role in Cleveland.

For more on rookie minicamp and all news related to the Cleveland Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. More news and analysis on the NFL in general as rookie minicamps start to heat up can be found at SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

Browns Rookie Minicamp: Brandon Weeden, Trent Richardson Impress As Camp Ends

Rookie minicamp has ended for the Cleveland Browns, so the drafted and undrafted rookies will now start participating in OTA's with the veterans of the team for the next month.

The two biggest names in the rookie camp were their two first rounders, Trent Ricardson and Brandon Weeden. In a good sign for the Browns, both Weeden and Richardson showed very well during the camp. Weeden looked big and threw very well, with a much harder throw than Colt McCoy had ever shown for the Browns.

Richardson also impressed a lot of people, with his new QB Weeden among them:

"Just look at him," Weeden said. "Whatever he is, 5-10 [actually 5-91/4], 225 pounds and he's 2 percent body fat. He's got a special ability when the ball's in his hands. You can tell when you hand it to him, he takes it from you. He runs hard, and I'm really anxious to see him when he puts the pads on."

Coach Pat Shumer was impressed as well:

"Wow, he's a very powerful man and he's powerfully built," Shurmur said. "Don't let the 5-91/2 fool you. He is almost 230 pounds, and that is a lot of muscle packed into that body.

"I think he's got a very powerful build, much like we thought when we drafted him, and it shows up on the field."

For a team that was looking to get big hits out of their two first round selections, this is good news coming out of the rookie camps.

For more on rookie minicamp and all news related to the Cleveland Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. More news and analysis on the NFL in general as rookie minicamps start to heat up can be found at SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

Browns Rookie Minicamp: Brandon Weeden Throws Well, Struggles With Snaps

The Cleveland Browns opened their 2012 rookie minicamp on Friday. It was the first chance to get a look at new quarterback Brandon Weeden on the field since being drafted with the 22nd pick in the 1st round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Reviews were mixed.

Weeden struggled with snaps under center. According to the Akron Beacon Journal, the team's newest quarterback fumbled two snaps in practice. Weeden worked mostly out of the shotgun at Oklahoma State, so it may take him some time to adjust. Despite that, Weeden sounded an optimistic tone about the process.

"It's getting comfortable. But I'll be honest, I like being under center more because you can see what's going on and you get the ball immediately. If I had to pick one of the two, not that I don't like being in the shotgun, but I like being under center."

The good news is that Weeden was throwing the ball well in practice.

For more on rookie minicamp and all news related to the Cleveland Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. More news and analysis on the NFL in general as rookie minicamps start to heat up can be found at SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

Browns Rookie Minicamp: Trent Richardson Comfortable Following First Workout

The first day of rookie minicamp for the Cleveland Browns was held Friday afternoon. For the team's top draft choice, Alabama running back Trent Richardson, it went pretty well -- so he says. Speaking with reporters afterwards, Richardson sounded rather optimistic about his first football-related activity with his new team.

"It went pretty good," he said. "Starting to get the hang of everything as far as being around everybody."

One thing that might help the young running back, the No. 3 overall pick in last month's NFL Draft, might be familiarity, as he point out some similarities between the Browns' playbook and the one from Alabama.

"Most definitely," he said when asked if he was comfortable with the plays. "Their plays are just like what ‘Bama ran."

Former Browns' Pro-Bowl cornerback Hanford Dixon stopped by minicamp as well on Friday and spoke favorably of Richardson.

"He's strong, powerful, fast. I mean he is the real deal," Dixon said. "I can't wait to see him running up and down the field."

For more on rookie minicamp and all news related to the Cleveland Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. More news and analysis on the NFL in general as rookie minicamps start to heat up can be found at SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

Ohio State's Andrew Sweat Informs Browns He Will Not Play In NFL

Undrafted free agent linebacker Andrew Sweat informed the Cleveland Browns that he has chosen not to play in the NFL. The Browns said as late as Thursday that they were expecting 37 players on the field Friday morning for rookie minicamp, but only 36 showed up as Sweat was a notable absentee. There was no word from Pat Shurmur or the club during the morning media availability, but in the afternoon, Shurmur announced that Sweat had changed his mind about pursuing a career in the NFL. Via Daryl Ruiter of 92.3 The Fan:

Pat Shurmur just told us OSU LB Andrew Sweat has decided be wont play in NFL

— Daryl Ruiter (@RuiterWrongFAN) May 11, 2012

Sweat was one of the first undrafted free agents the Browns signed, and he originally expressed excitement about his shot to play in the NFL. But the Buckeye linebacker was also passing on law school, which was a consideration before he signed with the Browns. His final Senior season was marred by a concussion and elbow injury, which combined with the law school acceptances, could have played a part in his decision to end his football career.

For more on the Cleveland Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. More news and analysis on the NFL in general as rookie minicamps start to heat up can be found at SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

Brandon Weeden "Aims" To Win Browns Starting Job

On Friday, the Cleveland Browns opened rookie mini-camp, which allowed first round draft choice Brandon Weeden to make his first impression on the team and their fan base. When the Browns selected Weeden with the 22nd overall selection in the 2012 NFL Draft, many came to the conclusion that the 28-year old Oklahoma State quarterback was the franchise's new "arm of the future." On Friday, it became clear that, that was how Weeden viewed the situation as well.

#browns qb Weeden has met Seneca Wallace here but not colt McCoy yet. Weeden says he's aiming to win job.

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) May 11, 2012

Taking a majority of his snaps from under center on Friday, it was stated in reports that Weeden looked comfortable, had a strong arm and had quite a bit of velocity. Luckily for him, Weeden prefers to play from under center.

#browns qb Weeden says he prefers playing under center. "can see things better, get ball faster"

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) May 11, 2012

Weeden concluded his day by saying the magic words that every football fan wants to hear (and by all accounts hears all the time):

#browns qb Weeden: I love this offense. I really enjoy this offense...before I'm done playing I want to win a super bowl"

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) May 11, 2012

For more on the Cleveland Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. More news and analysis on the NFL in general as rookie minicamps start to heat up can be found at SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

Browns Rookie Minicamp: Camp Opens On Friday For Cleveland

The Cleveland Browns will open rookie minicamps on Friday, giving guys like Brandon Weeden and Trent Richardson their first real experiences with their new team.