Fantasy owners likely weren't too thrilled with a 39-yard performance from Browns tailback Trent Richardson in Week 1, but the first-year runner is reportedly feeling quite well after making his NFL debut, according to Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram.
Richardson was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, and as noted by The Plain Dealer's Mary Kay Cabot, the rookie is still donning a rubber sleeve on his surgically-repaired knee. Although he sat out the entire preseason and is still getting acclimated to the speed of NFL defenses, the 5'9, 230-pound back let Petrak know that he doesn't believe he deserves a free pass:
#Browns RB Richardson said he was rusty in opener, but "that's not an excuse. i'm still a pro."
— Scott Petrak (@ScottPetrak) September 12, 2012
With the Browns set to face a Bengals defense that was absolutely shredded by the Ravens on Monday Night Football, it seems feasible that Richardson will be able to find a few more running lanes in Week 2. The fact that he doesn't appear bothered by his serious knee injury is clearly the single greatest sign of all however, and it certainly bodes well for Cleveland's chances this season.
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