BEREA, Ohio _ Browns coach Hue Jackson said he expects quarterback Josh McCown to return to the starting lineup at home Sunday against the New York Jets.
"All signs are pointing in that direction," Jackson said Thursday. "He had another good practice today and worked hard. So I think we're really trending that way right now."
McCown fully participated in practice the past two days, and rookie quarterback Cody Kessler remains in the NFL's concussion protocol after suffering a concussion Sunday in a 31-17 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Jackson has yet to rule out Kessler against the Jets (2-5), but it'll almost certainly happen.
"It's looking that way," Jackson said.
Jackson is being extra careful not to prematurely name McCown the starter, because the veteran is coming back after missing five games with a fractured left collarbone suffered Sept. 18 in a 25-20 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. But barring an unforeseen setback, McCown will return to the driver's seat.
"When you go practice, things happen sometimes," Jackson said. "Things can change, and I've been in this now all year and been shocked (about injuries). We get up to a day before (a game) and here's somebody out. So until I know for sure, (I won't name McCown the starting QB). I feel really good that it's heading that way, but I want to be for sure, from after practice and talking to our medical staff, exactly where everything is."
McCown helped the Browns (0-7) score three touchdowns in the first quarter against the Ravens before suffering the broken collarbone. He endured excruciating pain to finish the game, completing 20-of-33 passes (60.6 percent) for 260 yards and two touchdowns with two interceptions and a rating of 80.4.
He's been on the shelf ever since.
"He's kind of picking up (in practice) right where he left off," guard John Greco said of McCown. "You can tell there's kind of an energy from him. I think it's kind of like a sense of urgency. Not that we didn't have that before, but with him in there, he's really determined to do everything he can to try to get us a win this weekend."
Added wide receiver Terrelle Pryor: "I'm excited to play with Josh. He's a veteran. He's very savvy, smart, a team leader. I know he'll play his heart out. I'm going to give him my all when I'm out there and I'm looking forward to it. I'm excited about it."
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