Desmond Bryant Returns to Practice, Limited

Cleveland Browns defensive end Desmond Bryant had wrist surgery a few weeks ago. Today he returns to practice but on a limited basis. Since his surgery he has been limited to riding a bike on the sideline of practice. He returns to practice along side backup guard Paul McQuistan:

Bryant is a bigger return than McQuistan as he was expected to start on the defensive line. With him healthy the Browns can rotate 7 players for their 3 man front. All seven, Desmond and Armonty Bryant, Phil Taylor, Ahtyba Rubin, Billy Winn, John Hughes and Ishmaa’ily Kitchen, all are capable of starting and playing well.

Desmond Bryant provides length and strength on the edge, as well as an ability to get to the quarterback. In his place it is likely that Armonty Bryant will start. Armonty is an impressive pass rusher from the 3-4 DE spot but doesn’t have the same strength as Desmond to hold at the point of attack.

With Mike Pettine’s creative defense you could also see Jabaal Sheard, Paul Kruger and Barkevious Mingo down on the line. Pettine has a history of putting 3, 4, 5 and even 6 men down on the line. It creates confusion up front as to who is coming, and if they all come creates clean shots on the QB. Having Desmond Bryant’s size, length and speed increases Pettine’s flexibility.

McQuistan came over from Seattle, like most of our line pickups, but has struggled some this off-season. An ankle injury in the Zone Blocking Scheme, where you often have to pull out and get moving, could be problematic. The Browns have acquired a number of linemen which should help if McQuistan can’t go.

How big of a return would it be if Desmond can play Sunday?