Fansided

NFL training camp 2015: Priming all 32 teams

By Matt Verderame

Dec 28, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles head coach Chip Kelly before the game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 28, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles head coach Chip Kelly before the game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 21, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel (2) reacts in the second quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 21, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel (2) reacts in the second quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

Overview

What else is there to say about the Cleveland Browns? They drafted another first-round quarterback, he was terrible, and now the front office is being fitted for another clown suit. This was pretty much the story of the 2014 season despite progress being made. The Browns went 7-9 and actually led the division after 10 weeks with a 6-3 record, only to collapse.

Heading into the offseason, quarterback Johnny Manziel made the mature move of getting treated for his off-field issues in a rehabilitation center. If Manziel can get himself together, perhaps he steps into the starting role. General manager Ray Farmer wisely built up the lines in the draft, tabbing nose tackle Danny Shelton and center/guard Cameron Irving in the first round.

Major Battle

Another quarterback battle to keep an eye on. Farmer brought in Josh McCown on a three-year deal to start over Manziel, but all reports are Manziel looking like a new man in minicamps. If Manziel can unseat McCown and show well throughout the preseason, head coach Mike Pettine would be thrilled. Even if Manziel is the backup Week 1, how much ground has been gained?

Expectations

This is all about Manziel. The defense is a solid unit and the offensive line is one of the best in football with Joe Thomas and Joel Bitonio leading the charge. The weapons are poor, with veterans Dwayne Bowe and Brian Hartline hoping to prop up a lifeless group. Still, if Manziel can prove that he wasn’t a wasted draft pick, that should translate into wins and real hope on the shores of Lake Erie.

Next: Indianapolis Colts

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