Bryce Brown Taking On A Bigger Role


Andy Reid played coy with the media when asked if there has been a change in the depth chart behind LeSean McCoy.

“Ah, no,” he said.

So the backup to McCoy is Dion Lewis or Bryce Brown?

“Well, we’ll see. I can’t give you guys everything. We get to have one secret or two,” he replied.

There’s no hiding that Brown has looked very much the part of a thoroughbred through training camp, and could very well play a role against Cleveland on Sunday.

“All I know is I’m getting more reps than I normally am,” said Brown. “That’s all I can say.”

Lewis did not play against the Jets in the preseason finale because of a nagging hamstring. He is officially listed as questionable on the injury report for Sunday. With Lewis hobbled, Brown pounced on the opportunity, rushing for 122 yards (4.4 yards per carry) and a touchdown in exhibition play. McCoy had high praise for Brown, saying the rookie reminded him of Bo Jackson.

The reference seemed lost on the 21-year old.

“I guess that’s a compliment, right?” he said.

Brown’s talent has never been in question — he was regarded as the No. 1 recruit in the country coming out of Wichita East High School — but there were concerns about his commitment level after leaving both the Tennessee and Kansas State programs in college. Past that, Brown has never pass-protected on any level and it’s uncertain how he’ll fare come game day in that capacity.

“It’s something that I’m getting better at,” said Brown. “I’m very happy to go out there and do it. I’m going to stick my nose in there and give my best effort. The more you do it, the better you get at it.”