Friday, May 18, 2012
By Steve Wilaj
Boardman
In response to the million-dollar question, Cleveland Browns guard John Greco replied with the (expected) one-dollar answer.
“We’re confident with whoever’s taking snaps in the backfield,” Greco said about the Browns’ quarterback battle of Colt McCoy, Seneca Wallace, and Brandon Weeden. “It’ll work itself out.”
Greco, a 2004 Boardman High School graduate, was back in his hometown on Thursday.
With the Cleveland Browns Youth Football Clinic being held at BHS, Greco was the featured guest — interacting with kids and helping them through basic drills.
“I’m happy and privileged to give back to a community that gave me so much,” Greco said.
The event hosted approximately 100 children, ages 6-14.
“[We’re] giving kids the opportunity to, not only learn about the game of football, but appreciate everything that football has to offer,” said Matt Yunker, manager of youth football for the Cleveland Browns.
“We wanted to come out here and make sure that when these kids go home, they’ll say ‘That was a lot of fun. That’s something I want to keep doing,’” he added.
Greco was a third round draft pick out of the University of Toledo in 2008 by the St. Louis Rams. After three seasons with St. Louis, he was traded to Cleveland in August 2011.
Last season for the Browns, Greco appeared in 15 games — all as a reserve. Primarily a back-up guard, the versatile Greco can also play the tackle positions, as well as center.
“I’ve said all along, I will be able to step in anywhere I’m asked,” he said.
Even so, Greco will approach team workouts with a particular attitude.
“Everyone wants to go in with the mindset that they want to be a starter, so that’s my mindset,” he said. “I’m just excited about the opportunity to play close to home, play for a great organization, and hopefully get some wins.”
A player that should help Cleveland increase last season’s win total of 11 is Trent Richardson. Greco said he, like the rest of the organization, is excited to add the rookie running back.
“He’s a phenomenal athlete and a great player,” he said. “He knows how to win.”
With OTA’s beginning next week and mini-camp also on the horizon, Greco is busy conditioning and studying the playbook during the Browns’ offseason program in Cleveland.
Still, he was glad to take time out of his preparations to support his hometown.
“I think it’s special for the young kids and a great chance to have fun and meet new people in the community,” Greco said.