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Browns OTA recap: QB battle, receivers shine, O-line set

ESPN NFL •
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Cleveland wrapped its 10‑week OTA schedule Thursday, finishing the minicamp that Coach Todd Monken hopes will spark a turnaround. The biggest unanswered question is the quarterback starter: Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders each earned reps, but Monken wants more pad work before naming a man. Both showed progress—Watson appeared healthy after his Achilles and shoulder setbacks, while Sanders displayed improved footwork and processing.

Young receivers provided the most optimism on offense. Draft picks KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston impressed with quickness and contested catches, while second‑year Isaiah Bond added 15 pounds and became the most targeted player in practice. General manager Andrew Berry praised the trio, noting their rapid integration and the potential to elevate a passing game that still needs a reliable quarterback.

Offensive line continuity should ease the transition; Monken identified four starters—right tackle Tytus Howard, left guard Zion Johnson, interior lineman Elgton Jenkins and left tackle Spencer Fano—leaving only the center spot to settle. Defensively, the trade of Myles Garrett still looms, with Jared Verse adapting quickly but several key players absent, forcing the unit to rely on emerging talent and new schemes.