The Browns walked away from Thursday’s final joint practice with the Eagles carrying a stronger sense of readiness ahead of their Aug. 16 preseason matchup.
Cleveland made the most of its time in Philadelphia, using the joint sessions to sharpen its execution against a high-caliber opponent. Thursday’s practice offered valuable reps in a competitive environment.
One of the day’s standout moments came during a red-zone drill, where QB Joe Flacco connected with TE David Njoku for a touchdown. On the following play, the offense stayed on the field and successfully executed a two-point conversion involving Flacco, TE Harold Fannin Jr. and RB Dylan Sampson.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski emphasized the strategic advantage of joint practices, highlighting how they allow the Browns to try out different looks without the pressure of a live game.
“There were a number of times we put players in positions yesterday to see what it looked like and see if they can handle X, Y or Z,” Stefanski said. “And I thought for the most part we found out some guys are going to be capable of doing some things for us.”
Veteran G Joel Bitonio appreciated the opportunity to face off against one of the league’s most talented defensive fronts, noting that practices like these serve as valuable testing grounds.
“It’s great to do it in a practice where you know you can try something,” said Bitonio. “If it doesn’t quite work right here, you know not to try that in the game.”
Beyond scheme and execution, Thursday’s session also tested the Browns physically. Players battled through intense heat and the grind of back-to-back practices, conditions that Sampson believes will be beneficial come game time.
“It kind of felt like the fourth quarter,” Sampson said. “You got to find a way to get things done and that’s how I felt today, but that’s how it gonna feel in the game. So, like I said, getting those reps, it’s really good and I feel like I’m pushing the needle.”
S Grant Delpit said the experience of going against the defending NFC champions is something the Browns can carry into Saturday’s game and beyond.
“We’re trying to build this foundation and really take care of our business,” Delpit said. “So, I think this should really boost confidence for a lot of guys, going against the former Super Bowl champs.”
The Browns will now turn their attention to Saturday’s preseason contest where they’ll look to build on the momentum from their two days in Philadelphia, so follow along for more.