We’re about to enter the phase of Cleveland Browns training camp where true evaluations begin. Thursday’s practice marked head coach Todd Monken's final day of installs. From here, the team will shift into game-mode preparations for its first preseason test with the Chicago Bears on Aug. 15.
That date could mark a turning point for a number of Cleveland’s top position battles. Monken has been alternating first- and second-team reps at several positions beyond quarterback, like left tackle, right guard, and off-ball linebacker.
Among the developing storylines at Browns camp has been the wide receiver depth chart. Rookie Denzel Boston appears to be surging into WR1 territory, with Jerry Jeudy, KC Concepcion, and Isaiah Bond rounding out the top four, not necessarily in that order.
Some depth and special teams roles remain firmly up for grabs among that group, and second-year pro Luke Floriea appears poised to make a serious push for one of those final roster spots.
Per Zac Jackson of The Athletic, Floriea was seen mixing in with the first-team offense for the second consecutive practice on Day 8 of camp. Jackson shared one video of Floriea making a nice running catch along the sideline from Deshaun Watson as the team worked on some play-action install.
Luke Floriea getting reps with the No. 1 offense for the second straight day.
— Zac Jackson (@AkronJackson) August 6, 2026
Floriea entered camp on the 53-man roster bubble, but Monken has been adamant this summer that reps will be awarded to the players most deserving.
Luke Floriea’s training camp rise could force Andrew Berry’s hand on a key roster decision
When it comes to Cleveland’s initial 53, the question of whether to carry five or six receivers could loom large.
The Browns have several capable players battling for the No. 5 spot, led by Tylan Wallace, Cedric Tillman, Malachi Corley, and Floriea, who suffered an unfortunate hamstring injury during last year’s preseason opener that derailed his slim chances of making the cut.
He should have a much better chance this summer if he can stay healthy. Tillman could be edged off the roster due to a proven performance escalator in his contract, which the team hasn’t yet addressed. Corley brings value as a kick returner, but his skill set is a bit redundant with that of Concepcion.
If Cleveland opts to carry five wide receivers, Wallace will almost certainly be the guy. He’s the only player on the Browns’ roster with prior playing experience under Monken, and he’s been a key veteran presence on the practice field for Cleveland’s many first- and second-year players. Wallace is one of the most versatile players on the roster and brings proven special teams chops.
If the team opts to carry six wideouts, which the Browns have done in each of the past three years, Floriea could put himself squarely in the mix.
He plays with the kind of fiery competitiveness that Monken loves, and he’s a willing blocker and special teams player despite his smaller size. His short-area quickness meshes well with a run-first offense that could look to attack often off play action, so it’s not surprising to see him making plays during that exact install period during Thursday's practice.
Floriea has some natural fan-favorite appeal after starring at Kent State prior to signing with the Browns as an undrafted free agent in 2025. He has work to do to earn his spot, but despite a recent rash of injuries, Cleveland’s wide receiver group is in good shape. Floriea’s recent uptick in snaps definitely deserves fans’ attention entering next week's preseason opener.
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