With training camp officially in the rearview mirror, Brad Ward and Casey Kinnamon shift their attention to Saturday’s preseason opener against the Chicago Bears while reflecting on everything learned during nearly three weeks of practices in Berea. From the quarterback competition to roster battles, emerging young talent and Todd Monken’s influence on the football team, the episode serves as a comprehensive checkpoint before the Browns take the field for live game action.
Training Camp Comes to a Close
Brad reflects on spending nearly every open practice in Berea and explains why this camp felt noticeably different from previous years. The Browns practiced with a consistently high level of intensity, rarely taking plays off, whether in pads or shells. Every period felt competitive, with both the offense and defense feeding off one another throughout camp.
The hosts also discuss the transition from camp to preseason football and how live games will begin to answer questions that can’t be settled on the practice field.
Cornerback Depth Still Headlines the Biggest Roster Concern
While the Browns feel strong at several positions, cornerback remains the roster’s biggest question mark.
Brad and Casey discuss Cleveland adding another defensive back before traveling to Chicago and break down how the depth chart has evolved throughout camp. Trey Avery appears to have established himself as the team’s top backup outside corner. Still, the hosts believe the Browns will almost certainly continue searching for veteran help before final roster cuts.
They also discuss injuries within the room and why Cleveland doesn’t have enough proven NFL depth behind Denzel Ward and Tyson Campbell.
The 2026 Rookie Class Continues to Impress
One of the biggest themes throughout camp has been the performance of Cleveland’s rookie class.
Brad explains that Fano’s growth at left tackle deserves significant praise, especially after spending nearly every practice battling Jared Verse.
Is this class going to be better than 2025?
Todd Monken’s Identity Is Already Taking Shape
After watching Monken run practice every day, Brad shares why he has become increasingly impressed with the Browns’ first-year head coach.
The offense consistently practiced with urgency, moving quickly between drills while maximizing repetitions. Monken’s emphasis on creating a faster offensive operation—eliminating wasted time before the snap and reducing quarterback anxiety—was evident throughout camp.
Just as noticeable was the culture Monken has created, with players competing hard every day while maintaining an edge that carried throughout practice.
The Quarterback Competition Enters Its Most Important Stage
Naturally, much of the conversation centers around Cleveland’s quarterback battle.
Brad explains that Deshaun Watson clearly improved during the second half of camp after struggling early, while Shedeur Sanders continues to flash the higher long-term upside. The discussion focuses less on arm talent and more on the operation of the offense, with Sanders needing to play faster before the snap, operate more efficiently in and out of the huddle, and speed up his overall tempo.
The hosts also debate whether the upcoming joint practice and preseason games will ultimately decide the competition, agreeing that there aren’t enough practice reps remaining for either quarterback to separate significantly before live action.
Young Offensive Weapons Continue to Generate Excitement
Several young offensive playmakers continue to build momentum heading into the preseason.
Isaiah Bond’s ability to threaten defenses vertically has become increasingly apparent, while Denzel Boston continues making difficult catches and winning at every level of the field. KC Concepcion’s versatility also stands out, with both hosts believing Todd Monken will find creative ways to get the ball into his hands.
The conversation also touches on Jerry Jeudy, Tylan Wallace, and how Monken’s offensive design should create opportunities for receivers to produce after the catch.
Offensive Line Beginning to Come Together
Although there were early concerns about the offensive line, Brad believes the unit has steadily improved throughout camp.
Austin Barber has quietly strengthened his case for the swing tackle role, while Teven Jenkins’ return has stabilized the right guard position. The hosts also discuss how the running game has gradually become more efficient as the offensive line gains chemistry after working through installation.
Running Back and Wide Receiver Battles Heat Up
Several roster battles remain unresolved heading into the preseason.
Brad explains why Marshall appears to have taken control of the RB3 competition while Rocket Sanders still has work to do. At wide receiver, the competition between Cedric Tillman, Floriea and Larvadain remains one of the more intriguing battles on the roster, with each player bringing a different skill set.
Special Teams Could Be One of the Biggest Storylines This Preseason
After struggling on special teams a year ago, the Browns have placed significant emphasis on improving those units.
Brad discusses several potential return options, including KC Concepcion, Wallace, and others, while explaining why preseason games will provide the first meaningful opportunity to evaluate coverage units, returners, and the overall impact of the Browns’ special teams improvements.
Final Thoughts Before Kickoff
Before wrapping up the football discussion, Brad and Casey revisit several lingering questions surrounding the roster, including the need for additional cornerback depth, EDGE reinforcements, injury updates, and which players have the most to gain over the next three preseason games.
The show closes with some lighthearted NFL betting discussion, television recommendations, and the usual entertaining banter with the live audience before everyone turns their attention toward Saturday afternoon in Chicago.
