QBs: Okay...after 4 practices, apparently Brady Quinn looked the best. However, according to Coach Mangini, Derek Anderson looked good, as well. Then again, since Brett Ratliff knows Mangini's system, I thought maybe he would be leading the pack early in the game. But, that's not the case. Nevertheless, once again, we will have a QB controversy, or is it healthy competition? On our roster, we have 4 QBs: Derek Anderson, who I believe is starting his 5th year; Brady Quinn, 3; Brett Ratliff, 2; and Richard Bartel, 1. We really don't have a QB who is experienced. Will this be a problem? Anyway, I believe Brady Quinn will be given every opportunity to stabilize this position. It will be his to lose.
RBs: Jamal Lewis will be our starter, and he should be better behind an improved line. However, I wouldn't be surprised if we see a 2-back backfield, including Lewis and Jerome Harrison. This could limit Lewis's carries, making him an unhappy camper. Supposedly, Noah Herron will take the place that Jason Wright vacated. So, how will rookie, James Davis, fit in? Will he be groomed to take Lewis's place? Lastly, Lawrence Vickers will start at full back, and Charles Ali is a capable backup.
WRs: This is where things continue to get interesting. We not only have competition at the QB position, but we have a boat load of WRs, as well. With an improved line and improved running game, why wouldn't the passing game flourish? First of all, I wouldn't count on Donte' Stallworth, legal issues or not. Even when he's not having legal problems, Stallworth cannot be depended on. Secondly, I've seen Syndric Steptoe is action, and I'm not impressed. However, Braylon Edwards has a new attitude, and I believe that he will have a good year. He will start, but who will start opposite of Edwards? Will it be a veteren like David Patten, Kevin Kasper, or Mike Furrey? Or, will it be an unproven vet like Devale Ellis or Paul Hubbard? Many fans would like to see Joshua Cribbs start opposite of Edwards. Out of the four practices, Cribbs has been to two of them. Furthermore, there is talk about Cribbs playing on defense, as well. Lastly, will our two rookies be able to crack the starting lineup? Both Mohamed Massaquoi and Brian Robiskie have been impressive.
TEs: We have 5 TEs on the roster, and at least two of them are serviceable-Robert Royal and Steve Heiden. I haven't seen enough of Martin Rucker to have an opinion. The two other TEs on the roster are Brad Cieslak and John Madsen. Hopefully, one of these two or both will make a positive impact on the team.
Keywords: AFC North, Cleveland Browns
