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If this news does not perk you up in anticipation for the Cleveland Browns' season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles this Sunday, then I don't know what will: after having surgery on August 9th on his left knee, running back Trent Richardson participated in practice on Monday, according to reports. During the short period of time that practice was open to the media, here is what some members of the media said about Richardson:
Tony Grossi, ESPN Cleveland: "In the 15 minutes open to the media, Richardson looked smooth and easy in all the drills. He wore a rubber sleeve on his left leg but did not have any limp in his gait."
Nate Ulrich, Akron Beacon Journal: "He wore a black sleeve on his left knee as he took handoffs, ran routes and caught passes. He did not run full speed. Before the open period of practice ended, Richardson lined up with the starting offense during team drills after Montario Hardesty took a couple of reps."
Mary Kay Cabot, Plain Dealer: "With the team in shorts, shells and helmets, Richardson -- wearing a rubber sleeve on his knee - participated in individual drills and looked fluid and quick taking handoffs and running 35 yards to the end zone. He also looked completely healthy catching passes and running around with the ball. At one point during individual drills, coach Pat Shurmur pulled Richardson aside for a brief chat. Just before the media was ushered out 15 minutes into the session, Richardson lined up with the first team offense to take some reps. Montario Hardesty and Brandon Jackson also worked with the first unit."
Richardon's return was not the only good news. Cornerback Dimitri Patterson, who has been out of action since suffering an ankle injury against the Detroit Lions on August 10th, also returned to practice. Another member of the secondary, safety and special teams phenom Ray Ventrone, also returned after being absent since August 19th with a hamstring injury.
Remember, team president Mike Holmgren is scheduled to speak to the media around 1:30 PM EDT.