Now that Joe Jurevicius might not be ready for the start of training camp, thanks to knee surgery No. 4 this offseason, the discussion turns to who will man the No. 3 wide receiver position in his absence. Pro Football Weekly writes that Joshua Cribbs could be one alternative, although they admit that he struggled with drop passes during minicamp. There are also rumors that the Browns are interested in trading for Chargers wideout Eric Parker, and some fans wonder if Eddie Kennison or Joe Horn are viable options (yes, no and no). Perhaps the most intriguing alternative is the suggestion that the Browns could move tight end Kellen Winslow to receiver in certain passing situations. The Orange and Brown Report's Lane Adkins quickly nixes the thought:
Winslow does line-up wide often as part of the offensive scheme, but there is absolutely no desire on part of the Browns to move him to the WR spot and basically rip some of the fabric from the scheme.Makes sense. Adkins also notes that the organization doesn't want a young, inexperienced No. 3 wideout, but "if this team goes into camp with no new players, it only means they have support that Jurevicius is going to return or faith in some players on the roster to step-up."
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Jurevicius, the Browns' offense is is pretty good shape. Sure, Derek Anderson needs to improve his accuracy, especially on shorter routes, but the unit is stocked with big-play weapons. The defense has improved on paper this offseason, but the difference between going .500 and making the playoffs will be determined by the defense's ability to get off the field (preferably before extra-point tries).


Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
7-04-2008 @ 5:00AM
Mr.G said...
It will be interesting to see what the Browns do later this month.Eric Parker and Ty Law would seem to be the 2 missing pieces.
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7-05-2008 @ 2:39AM
PacoGerte said...
Eric Parker is a terrific #3. He's a great route runner, and before his toe injury many coaches called him the most under-rated reciever in football.
If Winslow has decent speed, it's possible to put him in the reciever's spot a few downs. Antonio Gates lines up that way all the time. Of course, the Chargers have a really good running game, and that's probably more of a factor in creating those mis-matches.
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