New Browns coach Rob Chudzinski can’t fix all the problems with his team in one offseason.
But the hometown boy who grew up when the Browns weren’t such a mess is doing what he can to get his players and his fans fired up for the effort.
According to Steve Doerschuk of the Canton Repository, Chudzinski stole the show in practice Sunday, by creating a little drama in the middle of a drill.
During red zone work between his first offense and his first defense, the rookie head coach stopped work, walked to the sideline to face the 4,000 fans in attendance, and waved his arms and yelled: “Fourth down! Game on the line!”
It got the desired response from the fans, who reacted loudly when quarterback Brandon Weeden hit Josh Gordon for a touchdown.
That enthusiasm is also bleeding into his players, with free agent pickup Paul Kruger (who played for the Ravens last year) declaring that his new team was on par with his old one.
“I think [on defense], we’re right there with them,” Kruger said, before adding for the incredulous: “Honestly.”
For the Browns to get better, it’s going to take more than talk. But giving people something to believe in is a solid first step.