Cleveland Browns: Players with the most to gain Thursday night

Robert Griffin III, the rookie wideouts and some players in the secondary have the most to gain for the Cleveland Browns in Thursday’s home preseason opener.

Many Cleveland Browns starters and key players only played briefly last week in the preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers. With the first live action under their belt, expect Hue Jackson to allow his starters to play longer into the ball game Thursday at home.

However, when asked if starters would play a full half in Thursday’s game, Jackson was unsure saying, “Haven’t made that decision yet.”

Jackson will be looking for his quarterback Robert Griffin III to take control of the offense and gain confidence under center heading into next week’s third preseason game, known as the dress rehearsal of the preseason.

Defensively, Jackson wants to tone up the run defense and force turnovers. Jackson will also be intrigued by the secondary play following the suspension to corner K’Waun Williams. Jackson will be monitoring which defensive back can emerge and contribute in the slot corner position.

Another area with intrigue is the wide receiver position. The receivers have battled some nagging injuries through camp and will be missing a few key guys on Thursday. Expect the rookies to get a bulk of the game reps, giving them their opportunity to showcase and set themselves apart from each other as the start of the regular season creeps closer.

Let’s now take a look at those who have the most to gain Thursday night.

Next: RG3