Cleveland Browns Preview: Position Battles During Training Camp

(Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images)

Jamal Lewis' tank may not be on empty yet, but he is the workhorse and starter.

The depth at running back is of some concern to many, especially since Lewis will be 30 years old once the season begins and a suitable replacement for him is still in question.

Harrison had a terrific season last year in a very limited/underused role and he still was able to manage a 7.2 yards per carry average. Harrison might not be a full time starter, but Coach Mangini will better utilize Harrison than the previous regime did. As an example, Coach Mangini will probably use Harrison similar to the way Leon Washington was used with the Jets a year ago.

Davis was drafted in the sixth round of April's NFL Draft, but if Davis puts on a few more pounds he may be more of a capable every down back than Harrison. Coming off a very lackluster Senior year at Clemson, Davis shared carries but he is a leader in the locker room and he puts the team first.

As a Sophomore and Junior, Davis rushed for over 1,000 yards and 10-plus touchdowns each year. Davis is an extreme dark horse in the Browns RB competition but his determination to prove all other teams that passed him up wrong might be the best motivation he needs. It helps that Davis went to the same High School as Lewis and was a fan of Lewis while growing up.

Herron may not receive much attention during training camp because he has a huge mountain to climb to have a chance at a opening day roster spot.

Predicted Depth Chart Outcome:

Jamal Lewis starter, Jerome Harrison backup/change of pace back, James Davis backup

STARTING CORNERBACK BATTLE

Major Battle Participants: Eric Wright, Brandon McDonald and Rod Hood

Position Battle Analysis:

With the newly acquired Hood on the team it brings a whole new look to the cornerback position.

Hood has been a starter for the Cardinals for the last two years and a nickel back for the Eagles the four years prior to that. Now in the mix, look for Hood to put pressure on both Wright and McDonald who were both very streaky in 2008.

In 2007, Hood picked off Anderson twice taking one to the house for a touchdown and now he brings his experience to a position that was one of the Browns biggest weaknesses in 2007.

Wright and McDonald are both beginning their third year in the NFL and now will be pushed by a veteran to keep their starting jobs.

A very interesting addition, with Hood, now one of the Browns weaknesses are looking to be more of a strength in 2009.

Predicted Depth Chart Outcome:

Eric Wright starter, Brandon McDonald starter, Rod Hood nickel back

Many great battles will occur this summer during the Browns training camp. From these battles, stories will be born and become memories for all the players involved and fans alike. Training camp is where superstars are born.

(Team Roster Knowledge/Team History #5 assignment)

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