5 Critical Questions Facing the Cleveland Browns Ahead of OTAs
As the Cleveland Browns begin voluntary OTAs, five key questions need to be addressed for the 2022 season:
- Deshaun Watson's Availability
- Potential suspension due to 22 civil cases alleging misconduct
- Traded for 3 first-round picks with $230M guaranteed
- Backup Jacoby Brissett available but limited as game manager
- Critical factor in team's 2022 outlook
- Baker Mayfield's Future
- Browns willing to absorb portion of $18M contract
- Carolina Panthers and Seattle Seahawks showing interest
- Resolution needed before mandatory minicamp
- Return to Cleveland highly unlikely regardless of Watson situation
- Crowded Running Back Room
- Nick Chubb and Jerome Ford secure roster spots
- Competition between Kareem Hunt, D'Ernest Johnson, and Demetric Felton
- Only three RB spots likely available
- Potential trade scenarios possible
- Tight End Depth Concerns
- Only David Njoku and Harrison Bryant as NFL-caliber options
- Critical for Stefanski's offensive scheme
- Veteran options include Darren Fells and Stephen Carlson
- Johnny Stanton potential promotion candidate
- Defensive Tackle Position
- Currently one of NFL's least talented DT groups
- Rookie Perrion Winfrey unproven
- Young players (Elliott, Bryant, Togiai) lack experience
- Veterans available: Ndamukong Suh, Malik Jackson, Akiem Hicks
These issues require resolution before the Browns can fully focus on their 2022 campaign and compete effectively in the challenging AFC North division.
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