Who are the two players you’re most excited for? – Jact S., Wooster, Ohio

This was hard to pick just two guys! A number of young players have stood out during training camp, but I’ll pick one offensive player and one defensive player.

Offensively, WR Gage Larvadain has found a way to take full advantage of his reps. He’s caught a handful of touchdown passes in team drills, one from QB Dillon Gabriel on the first day of camp and another on Day 7 of camp. He also connected with QB Joe Flacco during a red zone drill in the back of the end zone. No matter which grouping he has taken reps with, he has been running his routes well and finding space to be open for the quarterback to make a play.

“He’s a very smart kid, so we can line him up all over,” Stefanski said. “In football, when you can catch the rock and make somebody miss, those are things that get noticed. So, he’s been where he’s supposed to be, which is a big part of being a rookie and understanding your role. But he’s also made plays with the ball, so he’s done a nice job.”

Defensively, Schwesinger has stood out in camp. As a rookie, not only has he been learning the defensive scheme, but he’s made his presence known at the linebacker position. When the Browns put pads on and were able to simulate tackling, Schwesinger went out and performed, making plays during team drills.

Not only have teammates highlighted what Schwesinger has been able to do in camp, but also defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz has recognized that Schwesinger has already stepped into a larger role with the retirement of Hicks.

“Everything we’ve asked from him, not only has he been able to do, but he’s done a better job than what we expected,” Schwartz said. “He’s got great size, he’s got great quickness, he’s got great speed, he’s got great instincts, and he’s made just as many mistakes as any other rookie, but he has not made any big mistakes. I think you guys have seen some of the physicality that he’s brought to our practices. His communication is much improved. For a college guy coming in, it’s a different communication than in college because a lot of colleges, they look over for the signal. Nobody really says anything here. He’s a rookie. He’s got to command the huddle. He’s got to make calls and do a lot more things like that, and he’s excelled in all those things.”