Isaiah Crowell screwed up last week. In the aftermath of two African Americans being shot by the police, he posted an image on Instagram depicting violence against a police officer. He quickly took it down, but the damage was done. How damaging it will be to his career remains to be seen.
You can read about the story right here. Crowell is remorseful (the post was made prior to the Dallas protest where five police officers were killed) and his apology was sincere, but it's looking like that won't be enough for many fans, or the team.
"We have spoken to Isaiah regarding his extremely disturbing and unacceptable social media decision,'' the Browns said in a statement. "It was completely inappropriate and we have made him aware of our high level of disappointment. Isaiah has apologized but also knows that just an apology is insufficient and that he must take steps to make a positive difference after a very negative and impactful post.''
At the moment, Crowell's release doesn't appear to be on the table, but it's early. No matter how badly he feels, it might not be possible to mend fences fully in Cleveland.
Crowell figured to be Cleveland's main back, with second-year back Duke Johnson Jr. the third-down option. But the team has been talking Johnson up all offseason, with one recent story indicating Hue Jackson might see Johnson as an every-down type of player.
I think it will be very difficult for Crowell to come back from this in Cleveland. You can't unsee what he posted, and it's going to be out there forever. Many fans will never forgive. We'll see, but it won't be terribly surprising if the Browns ultimately change their tune and release him.
There are other backs on Cleveland's roster, including 2015 undrafted free agent Terrell Watson, who was in Cincinnati (with Jackson) last season. But should Crowell be cut, Johnson would be the most likely beneficiary. Definitely in line for an expanded role, and maybe a featured one.
--Andy Richardson