From QB to WR: Terrelle Pryor’s Last Shot with the Browns?

With Johnny Manziel sidelined by elbow soreness, could Terrelle Pryor’s versatility give him a shot at making the Browns’ final roster as a wide receiver and emergency quarterback?

By Steve King
Originally published Aug. 26, 2015 | Updated for clarity and SEO

The Browns’ quarterback situation continues to be chaotic — but one man’s pain might become another’s opportunity.

Manziel’s Elbow Issues Cloud Browns’ QB Plans

Johnny Manziel’s elbow soreness has forced him to the sidelines, casting doubt over his availability for the critical “dress rehearsal” preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With Manziel likely out, the Browns are left dangerously thin at quarterback.

Connor Shaw is already out for the season. That leaves just starter Josh McCown and journeyman Thaddeus Lewis on the depth chart — hardly a position of strength. The team is reportedly exploring signing another QB just to manage reps in practice.

And that’s where Terrelle Pryor reenters the conversation.

Terrelle Pryor: From QB to WR… and Back?

Once a quarterback himself, Pryor was officially converted to wide receiver when he signed with the Browns in the offseason. But hamstring issues have kept him sidelined for much of training camp and the first two preseason games.

Still, there’s hope he may finally see the field in Saturday night’s game. And if he does, it could be his shot to prove he’s worth keeping — especially as a dual-threat contributor.

What Pryor Offers the Browns:

Big-bodied receiver potential
Wildcat quarterback ability
Emergency QB depth
Roster flexibility

In a league where every roster spot matters, Pryor’s versatility could help the Browns save space by filling multiple roles.

The Bigger Picture: Ray Farmer’s Draft Under Scrutiny

Let’s not sugarcoat it: Browns GM Ray Farmer is under fire.

The 2014 draft was supposed to reshape the franchise. Instead, it’s been a disaster. Cornerback Justin Gilbert, taken 8th overall, has been a bust. Manziel, taken 22nd after a bold draft-day trade, has spent more time in rehab than in the pocket.

Yes, Manziel showed flashes of improvement this preseason. But with his elbow now an issue — and his future uncertain — the spotlight intensifies on Farmer’s decisions. If Manziel misses time or regresses, critics will be even louder.

A Final Shot for Pryor?

Despite missing time, the Browns still like Pryor. His size, speed, and quarterback background make him unique. But let’s be honest — he’s a longshot. He needs to be on the field Saturday, and he needs to produce.

Still, thanks to Manziel’s injury, the window isn’t closed yet.

Pryor might just stick around after all — not because he’s lit up camp, but because the Browns simply need him to do what few others can: line up anywhere, at any time.

Conclusion:
Manziel’s uncertain status is a setback for the Browns — but a sliver of hope for Terrelle Pryor. If he can prove his health and show value in multiple roles, he could turn this unfortunate situation into a comeback story.

Stay tuned. In Cleveland, nothing is ever simple — especially at quarterback.

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