The Browns continue their home stand against another division opponent when the Ravens come to town in Week 8. Cleveland currently sits at 1-6 and last in the AFC North, while Baltimore sits at the top of the division at 5-2.
"They're playing outstanding football," head coach Kevin Stefanski said. "Very talented on the offense, defense, special teams, great coaches. So, we respect these guys. We have to play good offense, defense, special teams. Play sound complementary football on Sunday. We're starting that process right now and have to have a good week of practice."
Here are the top news and notes from Wednesday heading into Week 8.
Ken Dorsey to call plays
As the Browns look to improve in all facets, Stefanski announced that offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey will call plays this week against the Ravens. While they continue to evaluate each week, Stefanski said the plan is for Dorsey to continue calling plays moving forward for the remainder of the season.
"We have a very, very collaborative process in how we work, both during the week and on game day," Stefanski said. "So, I will continue to assist Ken in the offense as we game plan, as we get into the game. But I have total confidence in coach Dorsey and the offensive staff now."
Stefanski has been the play caller since he became head coach of the Browns in 2020. However, Stefanski said they made the switch now as they look for ways to improve on their 1-6 season, and said as a team, they have to execute better offensively.
"Ken's a guy that I have total trust in. He does a good job with the quarterbacks, does a good job with the offense," Stefanski said. "So, just felt like this is the right thing to do."
Additional depth to quarterback room
Following the news of QB Deshaun Watson's season-ending Achilles injury, the Browns signed Bailey Zappe to the active roster off the Chiefs practice squad. Stefanski said they have to bring Zappe up to speed on their offense.
Zappe was first drafted by the Patriots in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft and spent two seasons with New England. Zappe has appeared in 14 games with eight starts. He has completed 192 of 304 passes for 2,053 yards and 11 touchdowns. He then spent the 2024 season on the Chiefs practice squad.
The Browns faced Zappe during his rookie season in Week 6 of the 2022 season. Zappe helped lead the Patriots to a 38-15 win over the Browns when he completed 24 of 34 passing attempts for 309 yards and two touchdowns.
"Yeah, played against us and won a football game," Stefanski said. "He's smart. Was in New England this offseason, so some similarities there."
Injury Updates
The Browns are one step closer to having their starting Pro Bowl guard back, as they designated G Wyatt Teller for return to practice on Wednesday. Teller started the first three games this season at right guard but sustained a knee injury and was placed on injured reserve on Sept. 25.
Teller participated in practice on Wednesday, and Stefanski said he is hopeful Teller will be able to play on Sunday against the Ravens.
C Ethan Pocic (knee), LT Jedrick Wills Jr. (knee) and LB Jordan Hicks (elbow, triceps) did not practice on Wednesday. Stefanski said they are taking each of those players injuries day to day and will monitor how they progress from their specific injuries.
