NFL Notes: Browns, Dolphins, Vikings

Browns

• According to Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Browns second-round QB DeShone Kizer demonstrated “superior physical skills” to the team’s other quarterbacks in terms of arm strength and mobility.
• Cabot says that if Kizer can get a good grasp of the team’s offense and show the ability to read opposing defenses, he’ll be in the mix to open the year as the team’s starting quarterback.
• Although, she admits that it will largely depend on if the Browns would prefer to take their time with Kizer.
• Cabot expects the Browns to try to run the ball more in 2017, which means both Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson should see plenty of work.

Dolphins

The Dolphins had veteran LB Lawrence Timmons moving around and playing a number of positions during OTAs last week.

Timmons mentioned that he’s capable of playing where ever the team wants to use.

“I played every position in Pittsburgh, so I’m used to being interchangeable,” Timmons said, via the Sun-Sentinel. “I’m like a fixer.”

Timmons is moving to a 4-3 base system in Miami from the Steelers’ 3-4 unit, but he doesn’t see this as an issue.

“I’m a linebacker,” Timmons said. “I do what linebackers do. I socialize with the first level and the third level. I just keep it real simple out there.”

Vikings

While the Vikings have made some notable investments in the running back position, Jerick McKinnon says it would be a mistake to count him out.

“Don’t count me out,” McKinnon said, via the Pioneer Press. “That’s always my goal (to start). I’m competitive. I think it will be a good way to evaluate myself and see where I stack up against them.”

“My body feels good,’’ McKinnon added. “I’m just ready to prove myself and show how much better I’ve got in the offseason.’’