Brandon Weeden's Arm Wows Onlookers at Browns Rookie Minicamp

The Cleveland Browns beat writers must be tired of Colt McCoy's pop-gun throws, because they raved about Brandon Weeden's arm strength during his first-ever practice with the team.

The dispatches from Cleveland Plain Dealer beat writer Mary Kay Cabot and Elyria Chronicle-Telegram and Medina Gazette beat writer Scott Petrak arrived before the Browns wound up the session:

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#browns rookie qb Brandon Weeden's great arm evident on first day of rookie camp. Nice outs, good velocity, comfortable under center.

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) May 11, 2012

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#Browns rookie QB Brandon Weeden showing off his big, natural arm. Looks effortless throwing outs.

— Scott Petrak (@ScottPetrak) May 11, 2012

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This, after comments from GM Tom Heckert and team president Mike Holmgren (via the Akron Beacon Journal), creates the distinct impression that the Browns want and expect Weeden to start, but also want him to have to compete to earn the job.

Weeden's debut was possibly the most eagerly awaited of the second round of minicamps this weekend, after top-10 pick QBs Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III and Ryan Tannehill all made their debuts last weekend.

2011 starter Colt McCoy has many flaws, including an inability to handle pressure well, which Weeden shares. However, McCoy's inability to stretch the field with deep throws or put the ball into small windows with zip is a weakness Weeden clearly does not share, and it was instantly evident to those watching the practice. 

The nightmare scenario for the Browns is Weeden not outperforming McCoy in training camp and forcing them to admit that they misjudged his ability to start right away.

If the rookie keeps throwing the ball like a dream, the brass won't have to worry about waking up in a cold sweat this summer.