BEREA -- Romeo Crennel said the arthroscopic surgeries performed on offensive
tackle Ryan Tucker and cornerback Daylon McCutcheon went well.
“They both went well cleaned,” he said. “They cleaned out loose particles and
we anticipate both players to be back for the start of the season. They will
start their rehab and we'll evaluate them daily and see how it goes. I'm hoping
they'll be there for the start of the season.”
Crennel said he would like to see them in the final preseason game, but that
might not happen.
“I think if I could see them in that last exhibition game would be good, but
we'll have to play that by ear.”
The injuries opened up opportunities on the offensive line and in the
secondary for guys to show what they can do.
“I told the team there are some opportunities for the guys on the offensive
line,” Crennel said. “I told them they can take advantage of it. I also told
them at defensive back there are some opportunities.”
Nat Dorsey, John Dunn and Kirk Chambers are the primary guys being looked at
to fill in for Tucker at right tackle.
“Chambers has been in the system and has some versatility,” Crennel said.
“He's ahead of some of those other guys that have been here for only a couple of
days.”
At cornerback, Leigh Bodden will step in for McCutcheon, but Pete Hunter,
Holly Davin and Antonio Perkins will be given some opportunities in the sub
defense.
“We're concerned a little with our depth at corner, but hopefully, some of
the other guys can step up,” Crennel said. “One of those guys, Perkins, made an
interception today and if he can keep doing those things that will help him.”
Other Injuries: WR Joe Jurevicius is still having back
spasms, but is getting better. RB Chris Barclay (ankle) is still in a boot but
is making progress. DL Andrew Hoffman had to leave practice as he over heated
and was taken in for precautionary reasons Crennel said he's OK.