| Brandon Weeden was effective throwing the ball over the middle in practice Wednesday. (US Presswire) |
Cleveland Browns rookie QB Brandon Weeden was slinging completions all over the field on Wednesday. The timing of his improved chemistry with receivers couldn't have been better -- it was the final day of training camp and the last chance to make a good impression in front of fans.
"We ran a lot of plays I enjoy running and that I'm comfortable with," he said. "On the flip side, the guys ran great routes to areas I can throw the ball firmly to and make a play. This was my best day of camp, if I can say that without watching the tape."
Weeden was particularly effective throwing over the middle in practice. His perfect strike to Mohamed Massaquoi in 11-on-11 drills hit the receiver in stride. His accuracy was one of several reasons the Browns drafted Weeden, as success in the west coast offense is predicated upon leading receivers for additional yards.
RB Richardson almost ready? Coach Pat Shurmur said RB Trent Richardson is "progressing very well" in his rehab from arthroscopic knee surgery 13 days ago.
"I like to think he's ahead of schedule," Shurmur said. "He's going to be out here soon."
It appears likely Richardson will return in time for the regular-season opener against the visiting Eagles. He could even receive reps in the preseason finale on Aug. 30 against Chicago.
WR Gordon improving: After a couple weeks of poor play, criticism for pulling up short on routes, and struggling to get on the same page with Weeden, it appears rookie WR Josh Gordon is again hitting his stride. The fine catches he made in practice on Wednesday seem to be a trend rather than a fluke.
"He's made a steady climb," said Shurmur, who expressed last week Gordon needed be "inspired" to perform his best. "It's hard to get yourself into wide-receiver shape. He had to learn the details of our offense and the challenges of our defense. He's responded well [in preseason games]."
The importance of Gordon becoming a significant contributor can't be understated. The Browns gave up a second-round pick in the 2013 draft to snag him in the supplemental draft. He brings much-needed athleticism to the position and, along with speedster Travis Benjamin, could prevent defenses from keying on featured receiver Greg Little.
LB Jackson ready to head home: The last day of camp signals checkout time at the hotel. The players are headed to the comforts of their homes.
And LB D'Qwell Jackson isn't complaining.
"I can't wait to get to my bed," he said. "Camp is camp, but to be in your own bed and drink your own water gets you ready for the season."
Stay dialed in on the Cleveland Browns on Twitter at @CBSSportsNFLCLE throughout the season with on-site updates from CBSSports.com RapidReports correspondent Marty Gitlin.