The Browns got a different kind of energy in Berea on Friday. Day 3 of training camp was the first session open to the public, and with fans in the stands, the whole scene picked up another layer of noise and life.
There will be nine public practices this summer, and the first one brought the usual camp mix of anticipation, reaction, and a few plays that jumped out immediately. One of the early notes from practice was the work the Browns wanted to get in: third-and-extra long situations, 3-level routes, and no huddle offense.
The defense and offensive line also had their share of physical moments. One of the day’s featured shots showed DE Jared Verse and DT Mike Hall hitting the pads.
At quarterback, the camp competition again produced a play that stood out for the wrong reason. Deshaun Watson was intercepted by LB Quincy Wilson during practice, the kind of turnover that always gets noticed in this setting.
There were also a few completions that gave the offense something to build on. WR Denzel Boston made a strong downfield catch on a throw from QB Shedeur Sanders, then later connected with Sanders again on a crossing route to the boundary.
Another receiver who made a strong impression was Jerry Jeudy, who laid out for a two-hand diving grab on a pass from Watson.
Cleveland also got a look at S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren with the first-team defense. The Browns still like S Ronnie Hickman and recently extended S Grant Delpit, but McNeil-Warren, whom they drafted in the second round this year, was working with the top unit as well.
There was a little bit of creativity in the passing game too. After a short completion to WR Greg Larvadain over the middle, he lateraled to RB Ahmani Marshall toward the outside.
After practice, team owner Jimmy Haslam spoke to the media. He mentioned wanting the Browns to be a contending playoff team in 2027, then turned to expectations for the 2026 season.
Around the rest of camp, the Puppy Pound returned, keeping one of the Browns’ most familiar traditions alive with puppies taking on player names and a twist added in.
There were also several other notes from the day. The Browns will practice in pads for the first time on Monday.
Before practice, Todd Monken criticized the team for having nine pre-snap penalties during Sunday’s practice. TE Harold Fannin was excused for personal reasons, leaving two tight ends currently excused.
OG Teven Jenkins and DT Kalia Davis did not practice. LB Carson Schwesinger said he connected with Hall of Fame linebacker Luke Kuechly this offseason.
QB Dillon Gabriel had been having a solid practice before LB Nathaniel Watson intercepted him near the end. ESPN Cleveland’s Tony Grossi also sat with some fans in the bleachers during practice.
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