How did Tony Fields perform in the practices? I haven’t heard any updates about him and am wondering if they brought in Dakota Allen to compete with him. – Bob Ruple, Novelty, Ohio
It’s probably not fair to put an evaluation on any linebacker from the offseason program since all practices are without pads, but for Fields, a 2021 fifth-round pick, the program was definitely productive from the sheer fact that he was healthy.
Fields battled a foot injury last year that kept him out of most of the offseason workouts and training camp, which were all valuable reps for a rookie to miss. He exclusively played on special teams last year and will still need to earn his roster spot in training camp. His competition includes Allen, who was recently signed, as well as Willie Harvey Jr. and Silas Kelly, an undrafted rookie.
Will the Browns utilize their tight ends more this season since Njoku and Bryant offer more big play opportunities? – Rob McCoy, Fairmont WV
That’s a question that will be one of top things to watch for in training camp.
The Browns led the league in 13-personnel (1 RB, 3 TEs) the last two seasons since Kevin Stefanski became head coach, using the grouping on 14 percent of plays in 2020 and 17 percent in 2021, according to Sharp Football Analysis. Austin Hooper is no longer on the team, so that number could change significantly next season.
If so, Njoku and Bryant could both see higher snap totals than previous seasons. Njoku played around 65 percent of snaps last season, and Bryant was around 40 percent.
Njoku’s big contract extension suggests he’ll be even more used as a key offensive weapon, and Bryant, a 2020 fourth-round pick, now has two years of experience and could be ready for a bigger role.
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