Perhaps no one is more in tune with the inner-workings of the Cleveland Browns than tackle Joe Thomas.
During his 10 years in Cleveland, he's witnessed everything the Factory of Sadness has offered, including what was nearly a winless season in 2016.
Entering 2017, the Browns are deciding between Cody Kessler, DeShone Kizer, and Brock Osweiler as starting quarterback. Thomas believes he knows who the favorite is.
"I think they're grooming Brock to be the starter in Week 1, based on what I've seen," Thomas told reporters Wednesday, including Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Osweiler was brought aboard this offseason in what amounted to a salary dump by the Houston Texans. Osweiler wasn't expected to stick in Cleveland, as the Browns also received coveted draft picks in the trade.
Nevertheless, the Browns named Osweiler the starter for the first preseason game, though it was believed to be in order to showcase him to other teams.
Osweiler didn't distinguish himself from the group in preseason action, completing five of 10 passes for 47 yards. His first three drives ended in 3-and-outs, requiring him to play into the second quarter to produce a sustained drive.
Kessler was the presumed favorite after starting eight games last year and faring well as a rookie. Kizer has garnered talk, however, after he impressed in his first preseason performance.
Thomas said he's excited about Kizer's future, but threw cold water on the possibility he could start in his first year.
"It would be asking a lot," the veteran said, per Cabot. "I could be wrong," he added.
