CLEVELAND (AP) — One year ago, Colt McCoy was a raw, out-of-sight rookie running Cleveland’s scout team. Buried on the depth chart, he was inactive for the Browns’ season opener at Tampa Bay.
McCoy’s professional status has changed dramatically. On Sunday, he’ll start against Cincinnati, the 10th different quarterback to open the season for the Browns since 1999 — perhaps the main reason the franchise has foundered. McCoy got thrown into the deep end last season, making eight starts while showing the grit and toughness that made him a college star.
McCoy thrived during the exhibition season in first-year coach Pat Shurmur’s pass friendly West Coast offense. Shurmur’s expecting big things from McCoy, who has impressed Cleveland’s new coach with his eagerness to learn, leadership and decision making.
