Cleveland Browns: Josh McCown should expect to be the backup

Nov 30, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Josh McCown (13) against the Baltimore Ravens at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Ravens won 33-27. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 30, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Josh McCown (13) against the Baltimore Ravens at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Ravens won 33-27. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Robert Griffin III has likely locked down the starting quarterback spot for the Cleveland Browns, leaving Josh McCown to serve as his backup.

Hue Jackson has not yet named a starting quarterback for his Cleveland Browns, but there is no rush to do so.

The Browns are still over a month out from the beginning of training camp, but a lot of focus has been put on Jackson for not yet naming a starter.

Robert Griffin III seems to be the clear favorite for the spot, but the lack of a definitive answer still leaves Josh McCown’s fate up in the air.

McCown went on local Cleveland radio at the end of last week and voiced his displeasure with the lack of an answer.

An article on Pro Football Talk recapped his remarks, which were originally stated on 850 WKNR in Cleveland:

"“I’m a human being and there’s no doubt, you want things mapped out,” McCown said. “I don’t like it, but I think it helps me get better.”"

McCown didn’t come out and bash Hue Jackson for not naming a starter, but it is clear he is unhappy with the uncertainty moving forward. But even though Jackson has not named Griffin the starter, McCown should be able to see that decision coming soon.

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No player wants to lay down and accept the role of backup, but McCown can be more useful to this team in that role. His experience in the league could help get Griffin back to the level of play he was at in 2012, or at least somewhere close.

He can also help groom rookie Cody Kessler to be someone who can start for the team in a few years if Griffin does not work out or another quarterback is not drafted next year.

A lot can happen after the 2016 season, but for now McCown’s focus should be on being a mentor to the younger quarterbacks on the roster. He had a chance to help the team last year, but unfortunately he could not stay healthy. With the new offensive line in 2016, McCown may be better off on the sidelines while the offense works out the problems that will arise with so many new faces on the field.

Next: A rebuilt offensive line

The Browns needed McCown last season when the other option was Johnny Manziel, but Griffin was brought in to be the starter of this team. McCown was brought in by the previous front office group, and although he is talented, the new group, which includes Jackson, will go with their guy in Griffin.

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