Practice notes: RB Peyton Hillis absent during portion open to media

Cleveland Browns running back Peyton Hillis (40) shakes hands with fans as he leaves the field after an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts in Indianapolis, Sunday, Sept. 18, 2011. The Browns won 27-19. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

View Larger Version >>

The Browns practiced this morning in preparation for their home game Sunday against the Miami Dolphins. Reporters were allowed to watch about the first 15 minutes of practice. Here is what you need to know about the open period:

• Running back Peyton Hillis was not at practice. A team spokesman said he didn't know the reason for Hillis' absence. Browns coach Pat Shurmur is expected to update media about Hillis' status at about 1 p.m. today. On Thursday, Hillis grabbed his side after running through a drill with fellow running backs. But he continued to practice and looked fine during the portion open to reporters. He also spoke with media in the locker room following practice and showed no signs of injury. Hillis, who's pictured to the right, was not listed on Thursday's injury report. Montario Hardesty took Hillis' place today with the first-team offense.


• Offensive lineman Tony Pashos, the projected starter at right tackle, practiced for the third day in a row. But Artis Hicks and Oniel Cousins continued to rotate at right tackle with the first-team offense.


• Defensive end Marcus Benard returned to practice after missing practice Thursday because of personal reasons.


• Wide receiver Mohamed Massaquoi (ankle) practiced again. He has been listed as limited during the past two days.


• Linebacker Titus Brown (ankle) watched practice in the field house, but he did not participate.


• Rookie strong safety Eric Hagg (knee) had a helmet in hand during practice for first time since training camp. However, he did not participate in any drills during the open period.