Brian Hoyer is first. Johnny Manziel is second.
One day after Manziel took snaps with the Browns’ starting offense for the first time, Hoyer was back behind center with Cleveland’s first-team unit during 11-on-11 drills Tuesday. With their competition seemingly tighter than at the start of training camp, Hoyer and Manziel had their best days of practice and the Browns’ offense finally clicked.
Hoyer also was listed ahead of Manziel in the Browns’ depth chart, which was released Tuesday.
Pettine had cautioned not to read too deeply into Manziel’s one-day promotion, saying it was part of the plan for Cleveland’s coaching staff to evaluate the two quarterbacks. And sure enough, Hoyer was right where he has been since the Browns opened camp — ahead of Manziel.
Pettine did not reveal who will start the Browns’ preseason opener Saturday in Detroit. Pettine said he’ll meet with the position group before deciding how the plays will be divided. On Monday, Pettine said it was likely that Hoyer will start against the Lions.