Cleveland Browns Position Breakdown: Offense

With training camps underway, it's about time to take a look at the Browns as they head into the 2009 season.  With some questions at certain positions, and what the team hopes to be answers with others, lets take a position by position breakdown, and see where the Browns are at.

OFFENSE

Quarterbacks

Obviously this is the most important position for any team, and in the Browns case, it is the most important battle throughout camp and the preseason.  Derek Anderson has amassed a loyal following in Cleveland, but it's time to hand over the reigns.  Anderson has had numerous opportunities, and was not at all able to recreate the success he had from 2007.

This article isn't intended to elicit emotion about between the Anderson/Quinn debate, but as a team, the Browns need to see what they have in Quinn.  Give the kid a legitimate opportunity to play, and to hopefully be successful.

No one will disagree, this battle is crucial to the upcoming season.

Running backs

Running back is proving to be an interesting position for the Browns indeed.  Jamal Lewis isn't the back that he was five or six years ago, and the Browns may have potentially found his successor, and ultimately their future star at the position.

James Davis will more then likely split time with Jamal Lewis, with slasher Jerome Harrison playing more of an experimental role.  Davis fits the mold of a "Cleveland" running back, and throughout mini camps, and the first few days of training camp has been the player to watch.

Depending on progress, it may be possible for Jerome Harrison and Davis to recreate the "Thunder and Lightning" tailback system Davis ran in at Clemson with CJ Spiller.

Wide receivers

What was supposed to be a strength position in 2008, the receiving corps has seen significant changes since the season ended this past winter.

Kellen Winslow was traded for a draft pick, the Browns used two of their three second round picks on OSU receiver Brian Robiskie and Georgia receiver Mohammad Massaquoi. Also with the suspension of Donte Stallworth the Browns signed David Patten and Mike Furrey.

With Braylon Edwards in a contract year, look for a season more reminiscent of 2007.  Edwards proved that he is a legitimate weapon and number one receiver, watch him turn the highlight reel on again this season.

The number two spot is up for grabs, but look for Brian Robiskie to play in the slot position, and give the Browns what they sorely lacked last season with Joe Jurevicious out with injuries. Massaquoi, the other rookie, has the potential and the size to play well in the number two spot.

Tight End

The tight end position isn't one of much necessity for the Browns this season. With the departure of Kellen Winslow, look for the tight end to be more relied on for blocking as opposed to receiving, a la the signing of Robert Royal.

Offensive Line

Tackles

Joe Thomas has the left tackle spot in a stranglehold, and doesn't look to be letting it go anytime soon. Right tackle is a little more muddled, but watch for Jon St. Clair or Floyd Womack to grab the spot.

Center

Alex Mack was drafted was for a reason.

Guard

Eric Steinbach will likely start at left guard, next to Joe Thomas, but on the right side Ryan Tucker has the potential to play, but is an injury liability, and with Rex Hadnot suffering a knee injury the position is up for grabs

A little brief, but watch out for the defensive breakdown tomorrow afternoon.