Browns Make Roster Moves

Dec 30, 2011; Nashville, TN, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs wide receiver Arceto Clark (19) catches a touchdown pass against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons during the first half of the Music City Bowl at LP Field. The Bulldogs beat the Demon Deacons 23-17. Mandatory Credit: Don McPeak-USA TODAY Sports

The Browns made a couple of relatively minor roster moves.  They released wide receiver Jasper Collins from the practice squad.  They re-signed running back Dennis Johnson, which was an expected move based on some of the patterns practiced by New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, who Browns general manager Mike Lombardi emulates to some extent.  This seems like some of the small areas where Lombardi can have a small, but useful impact.  The way they claimed Johnson and waited until the end of the week to make the move might have ensured he was there to be resigned.

The Browns also tried out two wide receivers; Arceto Clark and Brandon Kaufman.  They ultimately chose Clark, but Kauffman is a name in which draftniks are familiar.  The rookie out of Eastern Washington is 6’5” 215lbs and ran a 4.57 at the Scouting Combine that made some think he would be an intriguing developmental option.  Clark is built more like Collins was and projects more of a slot receiver at 5’10” 180lbs.  While at Mississippi State, Clark actually began his career as a defensive back and was working on that side of the ball for his first three years in Starkville.  It was in his last two years, he made the switch to receiver where he caught 66 passes for 929 yards and 5 touchdowns between them.  Clark had been on the Seattle Seahawks practice squad.

Obviously the Browns have some concerns about improving the wide receiver position, which is understandable.  Maybe they can find someone who can contribute like a Clark, but ultimately, they really, really miss Josh Gordon and cannot get him back soon enough.