Brandon Weeden admits he was "surprised" by the Browns' signing of Brian Hoyer.

"I was surprised, but that's the nature of the beast," Weeden said. "It's part of this business, and if you start worrying about it, that's too much to worry about." Hoyer's addition is an undeniable sign the Browns don't believe they're set at quarterback, but despite GM Mike Lombardi's noted admiration for the former Patriot, he's not a legitimate threat to Weeden. Between Weeden, Hoyer and Jason Campbell, the deck is still stacked in Weeden's favor. Hoyer's addition is worse news for Campbell. They'll battle for No. 2 duties after Weeden "beats out" Campbell.

ESPN Cleveland believes that if Brandon Weeden leads the Browns to a winning season, he will not be replaced in 2014.

That doesn't mean that the Browns won't draft a quarterback, but Weeden will be given a full season to prove himself under the new coaching staff. ESPN Cleveland's Tony Grossi continues to insist that the organization wants Weeden to succeed and that GM Mike Lombardi's influence is "greatly exaggerated." Weeden is in an even competition for the starting job with Jason Campbell, but he remains the heavy favorite to start Week 1.

Coach Rob Chudzinski was not ready to commit to Brandon Weeden as the starting quarterback on Thursday.

"I feel good about where we're at right now," Chudzinski said. "He's been working with the first group and we'll just see as we go forward. ... Right now it's too early to say anything one way or another." The Browns brought in Jason Campbell as a free agent, but that's all they've done to bolster the position. "I expect both of these guys to compete," Chud added. "I'm hoping that the best man wins the job and that he gives us a chance to win." It's typical coachspeak. The Browns have been working on Weeden's mechanics and delivery, and he's the overwhelming favorite to open the season as the starter.