National Football League

Browns optimistic Richardson will play

Published Aug. 26, 2012 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Browns coach Pat Shurmur is ''very optimistic'' rookie running back Trent Richardson will play in the season opener on Sept. 9 against Philadelphia.

The No. 3 overall pick in April's NFL draft, Richardson has been sidelined since undergoing left knee surgery on Aug. 9. The former Alabama star has yet to play in any of Cleveland's exhibition games.

Shurmur said before Sunday's practice that Richardson has made ''great progress'' and expects him to be back on the field ''soon.'' Shurmur wouldn't say what ''soon'' meant.

Richardson has had two microscopic procedures on his knee since playing in the BCS title game in January.

The Browns lost to the Eagles 27-10 on Friday in their home exhibition opener. Cleveland will play Chicago at home on Thursday in its final preseason game.