The Browns wrapped up their joint practices with the Vikings on Thursday, putting in two solid days of work against an opposing team. Now, they turn their attention to the second preseason game on Aug. 17.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski said that none of their staters would play in the second preseason game against the Vikings. It will open the door for their younger players and backups to take game reps.
DE Za'Darius Smith returned to practice for the first time since sustaining a knee contusion on Aug. 5.
"Good to see Za'Darius back out there," Stefanski said. "I mean, he was out there yesterday, you heard him. But it was good to have him in pads."
WR Amari Cooper left practice on Thursday with what Stefanski described as soreness. DT Maurice Hurst II also sustained an injury during the 11-on-11 drills but walked off the field with the trainers. Stefanski did not have an update on Hurst following practice.
Both S Rodney McLeod Jr. and CB Denzel Ward did not practice. Stefanski said McLeod was sore and Ward is still in the concussion protocol.
TE David Njoku participated in one-on-one drills but took only one snap in team drills. Stefanski said that the tight end was feeling "sore."
DT Mike Hall, who sustained a stinger on Wednesday, did not participate in Thursday's practice. Stefanski said Hall could "potentially" miss some time with the stinger.
WR Jaelon Darden has not practiced since Monday.
WR David Bell continues to miss practice after sustaining an injury in Saturday's game against the Packers. Earlier this week, Stefanski said the receiver will miss "one to two weeks."
S Ronnie Hickman and LB Nathaniel Watson have also not practiced since the Packers game.
LB Jordan Hicks and LB Tony Fields continue to miss time, as well as G Michael Dunn.
CB Greg Newsome II – who is on the active/non-football injury list – continues to be present on the sideline during practice. Stefanski said he did not have a timeframe for Newsome, but that he is improving.
"I think he would tell you he's feeling really good," Stefanski said.
