Cleveland Browns Training Camp: Day 2 recap

The second day of Cleveland Browns training camp wrapped up inside, as the weather once again forced the team indoors.

For the second consecutive practice, lightning in the Berea area forced Cleveland Browns training camp indoors. Once again, fans were not permitted to take in camp, as practice was closed to the public. Although the Browns have been itching to perform in front of their fans, the tough call was made for fans’ safety, forcing the players to adapt to indoor conditions.

Head coach Hue Jackson appears to have no problem with the two consecutive indoor practices to begin camp. Even though it feels tight inside, and the turf is difficult to adjust to, Jackson described this adversity as “fun” in his post practice press conference.

“These are some good lessons for us,” Jackson remarked.

The main takeaways on the field from day two were positive. Led by defensive coordinator Ray Horton, the defense was aggressive, coming after the offense with exotic looks and relentless pursuit. Despite this, the offense battled, not turning the ball over or giving in to the defense as much as they did in the opening day. A few uncharacteristic mistakes were corrected, and it was a more clean practice, which is the most promising takeaway.

The experimentation incorporated by the coaching staff is the other main takeaway from Saturday’s practice. Jackson emphasized the need to move guys around, and try out new positions to maximize players’ potential and eventual production. One notable example of this is defender Pierre Desir.

Desir, normally a cornerback, saw some reps at safety at today’s practice. This isn’t the only case on defense, as Horton and Jackson are working together to move players around to benefit both them and the team. This creates intrigue and optimism for fans who are used to the same type of management and coaching styles.

Still, the quarterbacks aren’t much of a topic of conversation. Coach Jackson did not mention them in his discussion with the media at all. It appears that all of the quarterbacks are progressing as they are expected to, but a decision still seems far away.

Saturday’s practice will certainly not linger long. The anticipation for Cleveland’s first practice in pads is already building around the facility, as it was dominating most of the discussion with the media. Although quarterbacks won’t be hit, Jackson emphasized the need to develop toughness, and stated that his players will “definitely bump into each other.”

“I’m looking for a team that’s relentless,” Jackson said. There’s most certainly a balance, as the Browns must acquire toughness yet remain healthy. Overall though, the buzz in Berea has more to do with the anticipation of tomorrow than what occurred in the indoor facility today.

The excitement for a team to get after each other physically is encouraging. Plus, the added excitement of the first time playing in front of fans will make tomorrow’s practice crucial in the development of this team. The session is sold out already, and runs from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM.

Next: Browns welcome back Shon Coleman

The full schedule for training camp sessions has been released, and tickets for future practices in Berea can be found here.