The Browns have some interesting battles looming, with players like DE Marcus Benard and DT John Hughes fighting for playing time. They are not the only players who need a good camp to show their worth. Here are a few that deserve special attention.
Marcus Benard sighting: DE Marcus Benard has made little impression in camp -- but that's an improvement from last year. He angered coach Pat Shurmur in 2011 by adding 20 pounds during the offseason. He is now trim and looking quick, but is behind free agent acquisition Juqua Parker as a pass-rushing specialist.
Will Hughes lose? Will Winn win?: Rookie DTs John Hughes and Billy Winn are behind veteran Scott Paxson in the battle to replace injured starter Phillip Taylor, who will miss the first half of the season with a pectoral injury. Coach Pat Shurmur said Hughes has flashed as a run defender and Winn as a pass-rusher. "I don't want to pigeon-hole them, but those are my initial thoughts," Shurmur said.
Moore in pickle; must play catch-up: TE Evan Moore could return this week from an undisclosed injury, but he might be falling behind at a very competitive position. Second-year TE Jordan Cameron has been among the most impressive players in camp and Benjamin Watson is the set starter. Moore, who proved disappointing in 2011 after signing a two-year contract extension, might also be on the outside looking in at Alex Smith.
Fade to Brown and Orange: The Browns rarely used the fade pattern in the red zone last year, but could break out the pattern in 2012 with WR Greg Little more experienced and fellow rangy WR Josh Gordon having an ideal skill set and body for it. "It can be a good play if you have a mismatch size-wise," said coach Pat Shurmur.
For more news and notes on the Browns follow Marty Gitlin on Twitter at @CBSSportsNFLCLE.
