NFL Notes: Browns, Chiefs, Cowboys, Patriots, Rams

Browns

• HC Mike Pettine said QB Johnny Manziel is “frustrated” that he’s not starting right now, but they “don’t plan to force the issue.“

“I can sense it,” Pettine said, via the Akron Beacon-Journal. “I think we all [want to know how Manziel would perform]. That’s a question we need to have answered, but it’s not something that you can force. If it ever gets to the point whether we’re potentially up big, down big, or if there’s a situation that calls for him to go in, we’ll get an opportunity to see him, but there’s a lot of football left to be played. You’re looking for an evaluation at some point, but what I’m saying is I don’t think you can force it.“

Chiefs

• Chiefs tried out LB Brandon Denmark, LB Kevin Reddick, LB D.J. Smith, LB Uani Unga, and DE Tim Fugger. (Howard Balzer)
• WR Donnie Avery (groin) has been ruled out for Week 9. (Adam Teicher)

Cowboys

• Ed Werder mentions that backup QB Brandon Weeden has received weekly reps with the first-team offense and Dallas’ offense is not quarterback dependent.

Patriots

• G Chris Barker cleared waivers and will rejoin the team’s practice squad. (Jeff Howe)

Rams

• Rams tried out OT Mitchell Van Dyk and OT Jason Weaver. (Howard Balzer)