Five storylines we think will happen in Episode 4 of "Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Cleveland Browns," which is set to air tonight at 10 p.m. on HBO.
Josh Gordon returns
Set to Diplo's "Get It Right," last week's episode of "Hard Knocks" ended as Gordon goes through a workout with strength and conditioning director Larry Jackson in the team's indoor fieldhouse. It set the stage for the star Browns star wide receiver's much anticipated return to the field following almost a month-long leave of absence. While Gordon, who continues recovering from a public battle with addiction, isn't expected to play this preseason, the goal is for the talented but embattled player to suit up Week 1 against Pittsburgh.
To be the best, you have to beat the best
In a game they viewed as something of a measuring stick, the Browns beat the Eagles last Thursday thanks to a defense that was lights out against the defending Super Bowl Champions. Cleveland forced four turnovers -- intercepting quarterback Nick Foles twice -- in what could be a harbinger of things to come for a unit that, at least on paper, could stand to be one of the league's best.
Tyrod Taylor's toughness on display
Taylor suffered a dislocated pinky finger and bruised left hand in the first quarter against Philadelphia but refused to let the injury keep him out for long. After a brief trip to the locker room for X-rays, the Browns starting quarterback returned to the field with his teammates despite what was, by all accounts, a nasty-looking fall out of bounds while scrambling left on a fourth-and-goal. It underscored Taylor's mental and physical toughness as he prepares to command a new-look offense filled with talent.
Baker Mayfield's debut with the 1s
When Taylor went down, his understudy, rookie Baker Mayfield, saw his first action with the Browns' first-team offense. Mayfield, the first overall pick in the NFL Draft, displayed that type of talent and also had his fair share of rookie moments. While the former Oklahoma star was disappointed with the performance, it offered fans brief glimpses of what could be a bright future in Cleveland.
Crunch time
In less than a week, the Browns will trim their roster from 90 to 53. Expect this week's episode to train a lens on those "bubble" players hoping to earn their spot on the team, such as journeyman tight end Devon Cajuste (whose heartwarming bond with his father was highlighted in Episode 2) and veteran defensive end Nate Orchard, who took center stage in Episode 3. This week's preseason finale against the Lions marks the final opportunity to show the front office and coaching staff they belong on the active roster.
