Cleveland Browns rookie running back Duke Johnson has cleared concussion protocol.
The Cleveland Browns‘ blighted running back corps is getting some much needed fortification. Rookie back Duke Johnson returned to practice on Wednesday and has been cleared to play in Sunday’s game against the New York Jets.
Johnson suffered a concussion last month and has finally cleared the league’s protocol. Even better news for the Browns is that, should he perform well in practice this week, Johnson will play a significant role in the team’s opener.
#Browns Pettine said no reason to think Duke Johnson won't have a significant role in the game
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) September 9, 2015
Cleveland drafted Johnson in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft at pick No. 77. In three years with the Miami Hurricanes, Johnson accrued 3,519 yards rushing (4,238 yards of total offense) and 30 total touchdowns. He also was a factor in the return game during his rookie and sophomore campaigns, racking up nearly 1,300 yards and two touchdowns. In his junior season alone, Johnson exploded for 1,652 yards rushing and 13 total TDs (28% of the team’s touchdowns) for an underachieving Hurricanes squad.
In Johnson, the Browns have a complimentary backup to second-year back Isaiah Crowell. Crowell is expected to be the team’s featured back who will run between the tackles, whereas Johnson will be a receiving threat out of the backfield.
Cleveland and the Jets kick off at 1:00 p.m. ET on Sunday, September 13.
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