It is Sunday, June 5, 2022, and the Cleveland Browns will begin the third session of OTAs on Monday, June 6.
The Browns made news yesterday when D’Ernest Johnson signed a one-year deal with the team; this means another offensive performer from 2021 will be back in the huddle in 2022.
That is our lead story in the Sunday edition of Browns Nation news and notes.
1. ‘Slow Grind’ Is Back
Though Johnson has been practicing with the team at OTAs, he had not signed his RFA tender.
On Saturday afternoon, the Browns and Johnson agreed to terms.
Johnson switched agents during the offseason and perhaps was shopping for offers from other teams.
#Browns D’Ernest Johnson, who fired his agent in hopes for a big pay day, ends up only getting a deal worth up to $2.4M and around $900,000 guaranteed.
— Brad Stainbrook (@StainbrookNFL) June 4, 2022
Would the Browns have matched opposing teams’ offers with a crowded RB room?
No one knows.
D’Ernest Johnson would be a top 10 RB if he went to another team. Browns RB room stays loaded https://t.co/SBIn7qLxW5
— Sir Yacht (@SirYacht_) June 4, 2022
However, Johnson has been loyal and performed well when called upon, particularly in 2021 when Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt, could not play.
D'Ernest Johnson is one of the most underrated backs in the league and I don't care who knows.
WELCOME BACK pic.twitter.com/qaGZVpzIKz
— Nick Karns (@karnsies817) June 4, 2022
His story is inspiring and is the epitome of perseverance, and he is a fan favorite so everyone is happy that he is officially back with the Browns for 2022.
No matter how long the process takes or how many doors close on you, keep going and keep pushing #SlowGrind🐢™️ https://t.co/0nHboOhDU5
— D'Ernest Johnson (@DernestJohnson2) February 11, 2022
2. A Coach Stefanski Sighting
No, he is not in Miami with the defensive players this weekend.
Coach Stefanski enjoyed a Saturday afternoon out at The Memorial PGA tournament taking place this weekend in Dublin, Ohio.
Thanks for coming out today Coach Stefanski @Browns | #theMemorial | #Browns pic.twitter.com/bTFMsr6592
— the Memorial (@MemorialGolf) June 4, 2022
Stefanski is very private when not on the sidelines as the Browns’ head coach so it is nice to see him relaxed and enjoying an afternoon with his sons, Will and Gabe.
3. Hot Take On Jedrick Wills
Jedrick Wills is entering his third NFL season.
It seemed as though everyone had injuries in 2021, and Wills was no exception.
The importance of a healthy and effective Wills cannot be overstated.
This would be true regardless of whether the Browns had a new quarterback.
It will be interesting to watch his development in Year 3.
The #Browns desperately need Jed Wills to stay healthy for all 17 games in 2022. Not only for the success of the team, but for proper evaluation of Wills himself. His 5th year option becomes available following this season. It’s crunch time for Jed.
pic.twitter.com/n5TdgnccqX— Matt Wilson (@CoachWilson66) June 4, 2022
Happy Sunday Browns fans!
NEXT: Browns Sign RB D'Ernest Johnson To $2.4 Million Deal
