News & Info/Headlines

Following up on an item in this week's Team Notes. ... As NFL.com's Marc Sessler framed it: "Cleveland's unpredictable, committee-based backfield was a disaster last season for fantasy enthusiasts everywhere.

"The Browns are hoping for a less-muddled situation in 2015 after the trade of Terrance West left the club with just two halfbacks on the roster."

Fantasy owners hoping for the same shouldn't get too excited just yet.

With second-year man Isaiah Crowell ticketed for early-down work, rookie Duke Johnson was drafted to operate as a passing-down specialist -- and maybe more.

Back at practice on Wednesday after suffering a concussion last month, Johnson has been fully cleared for Sunday's opener against the Jets and head coach Mike Pettine told reporters that Johnson could play a "significant role" against a nasty defensive front.

Sessler added, "It's what the team hoped for all along, planning to feature Johnson in a role that mirrors Cincinnati's use of Giovani Bernard."

The reality, however, is that Johnson has barely played this summer while nursing a hamstring injury prior to the concussion. His ability to pick up the playbook, pass block and make plays against New York's Darrelle Revis-led secondary loom as a mysterious X-factor for Sunday's showdown.

Meanwhile, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that the Browns have spoken to Montee Ball since he became a free agent after clearing waivers earlier this week. Cabot reports several other teams have also been in contact with the former Bronco, who was a second-round pick in 2013, and that it is “uncertain” where he’ll land.

The Browns passed on a chance to claim Ball in time to have him at practice this week, as did any other team that might have interest. That suggests Ball may remain on the market through Week 1, which may bring injuries or other developments that land him with a new team. ...

Also of interest. ... Dwayne Bowe (hamstring) was limited in Wednesday's practice. His health and role are both in question at this point of the week.

Pettine told the media Wednesday that Johnny Manziel had some soreness coming off of Monday's throwing session, but "that was expected." The second-year signal-caller should be set to suit up on Sunday.