NT Rogers returns to practice with Browns, likely to play in opener vs. Vikings

Browns’ NT Rogers back at practice

BEREA, Ohio — Cleveland Browns Pro Bowl nose tackle Shaun Rogers returned to practice, increasing the chances he’ll play in the season opener against Minnesota.

Rogers did not play in the exhibition season with an unspecified injury. For the past three weeks, he rode the stationary bike while his teammates practiced. The 6-foot-4, 350-pounder had 81 tackles and 4½ sacks in 16 games last season, his first with Cleveland.

Rogers participated in position and individual drills during the 30 minutes of practice open to the media.

Browns coach Eric Mangini would not speculate if Rogers would be on the field to face the Vikings.

“With any guys that are on the injury report, we’re always hoping they’re going to play,” said Mangini, who treats all injuries with secrecy. “To say one guy is definitely going to be there or not be there, it changes during the course of the week and that’s the reality of it.”

The Browns will disclose their first injury report of the season Wednesday, according to NFL rules.

Mangini knows what value the massive Rogers has to Cleveland’s 3-4 defense.

“He’s an outstanding player,” he said. “He’s got very good strength against the run. He’s got very good awareness of blocking schemes, and he’s got a high motor when he plays. That’s sometimes tough to do when you’re a bigger guy — play in and play out at a high level — because you’re carrying a little bit more luggage than some of the little guys.

“I think he’s also very effective pass rusher, so he’s got a lot of great traits.”