WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. — After Day 4 of training camp practice, Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry addressed local media for approximately 25 minutes, covering a range of subjects.
Berry discussed the acquisition of Mike Vrabel, explaining how the Browns managed to bring him on board as a consultant following his departure from the Titans’ head coaching position.
“It was quite thrilling,” Berry remarked. “I recall discussing it with Kevin, wondering whether Mike would be interested in this opportunity or if he might prefer to take a year off with his family. We approached him tentatively, and to our surprise, he was very enthusiastic about it. It’s great because we had previously crossed paths with Mike—Kevin was on a committee with him. But seeing him every day, you’d think he was a rookie NFL quality control coach with how energetically he’s running up and down the field. It’s really impressive.”
Berry acknowledges that the Browns might not be able to keep Vrabel for an extended period.
“Vrabs (Vrabel) is fantastic,” he said. “We’re fortunate to have him, though I think we’re probably on borrowed time with him. We’ll make the most of it. His experience is incredibly valuable—he’s been an All-Pro player, a Power Five college coach, a defensive coordinator, and a highly successful head coach in Tennessee.
“He’s seen it all and offers great insight on everything from practice and game planning to player development and acquisition, whether through the draft or free agency,” Berry continued. “We’re definitely getting our money’s worth with Mike, and we’re thrilled to have him here.”
Vrabel has been actively involved on the practice field, engaging with various position groups, including special teams.
“It’s been fantastic,” Berry noted. “Mike brings a lot of competitive energy and is known for his trash-talking, which makes him a very dynamic coach. The players really enjoy having him around.”
Berry’s Take on a Potential Dome Stadium
When asked about his preference for a new domed stadium in Brook Park versus staying on the lakefront in downtown Cleveland, Berry shared his perspective:
“From a football standpoint, I’m supportive of any solution that enhances our home environment and improves the fan experience, whether it’s indoors or outdoors,” Berry said. “We’re excited about any potential improvements. I know ownership, Dave Jenkins, and our local politicians are diligently working on finding the best solution.”
“If you’re asking for my personal opinion, I’d say we’re paying these players to be athletes, not gladiators,” he said. “So I’d prefer a dome solution. Being indoors is better for the team and, given the Midwest weather, it’s also better for our fans. It creates a better fan experience later in the season when we’re pushing for the playoffs. However, I want to stress that any solution is a good solution. Whether it’s a renovation or a new build, it means enhancing our home environment and boosting our home-field advantage in Cleveland.”
Berry also mentioned that he doesn’t see a significant difference in roster building whether the team plays indoors or outdoors.
“I really don’t see a significant difference,” Berry said. “Consider players like Patrick Mahomes, Ben Roethlisberger, Aaron Rodgers, Brett Favre, and Josh Allen—despite playing in challenging weather conditions, they’ve remained pass-oriented. Even Tom Brady was part of a pass-heavy offense in New England. So, in terms of roster building, I don’t think the weather makes a huge impact.”
Regarding the readiness of players who have been sidelined due to injuries, Berry was asked about cornerback Greg Newsome and defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson. Both underwent surgeries last week—Newsome for a hamstring injury and Tomlinson for a knee issue.
“I think it’s entirely realistic that they could be ready, though it’s hard to predict exactly when,” he said. “Injuries are always unpredictable, but it’s definitely a possibility.”
Jedrick Wills, who ended the 2023 season on injured reserve alongside Jack Conklin, both due to knee surgeries, has not yet participated in training camp practices. However, Wills was seen working on the sidelines for the first time on Saturday.
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