3 Browns veterans that are fighting for their spot as training camp begins, one name may be a bit of a surprise

NFL training camps are finally firing back up, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game is set for this coming weekend.

The Cleveland Browns will have veterans report on Tuesday as they return to work following the post-OTA break. After a disappointing 3–14 season, the current regime must show significant progress if it hopes to stick around long-term in Cleveland.

Speaking of sticking around, there are three veteran players on the roster who will be fighting for their spot specifically that I want to mention:

DT Shelby Harris

Cleveland continues to build in the trenches, which is no surprise given that it’s the focal point of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz’s system. One year after selecting Mike Hall Jr. in the second round, the Browns used the No. 5 overall pick in 2025 on Michigan DT Mason Graham. Cleveland is clearly committed to getting younger along the interior defensive line.

Harris is entering the final year of his deal, carrying a $3.8 million cap hit with just $1.6 million in dead cap. Maliek Collins and Graham are expected to be the Week 1 starters. If a younger player like Jowon Briggs continues to emerge, Harris may not be in Cleveland for much longer.

WR Diontae Johnson

It was a questionable move by the Browns to overlook the wide receiver position this offseason outside of adding Johnson. The former Pro Bowler has a chance to step up as the No. 2 or No. 3 option—if he can return to his pre-2023 form.

After bouncing between three teams last season, Johnson didn’t generate much interest outside of Cleveland. Now, the veteran wideout must prove himself again if he wants to continue his NFL career. He’s definitely a veteran to watch heading into camp after a disappointing 2024.

QB Joe Flacco

The best-case scenario for the Browns is being able to cut or trade the oldest quarterback in the room—because the three younger options have proven themselves. That’s been the hope since the full quarterback room came together, and it still holds true.