BEREA: Browns receiver Donte Stallworth opened training camp on the sideline after pulling a hamstring while training at home.

Acquired in free agency from the New England Patriots to take over the No. 2 receiver spot, Stallworth played catch with Braylon Edwards during Wednesday's first practice session. General Manager Phil Savage said Stallworth could miss a ''couple days.''

''He's a little sore; he's working with the trainers,'' coach Romeo Crennel said. ''He's shown that he'll get treatment all the time; he'll do whatever he has to do to get back.''

His absence could help young receivers Travis Wilson, Syndric Steptoe and Steve Sanders and journeyman Kevin Kasper, signed in January, catch the coach's eye. Joe Jurevicius, slated to play the third receiver spot, opened camp on the active physically-unable-to-perform list after undergoing the fourth surgery on his right knee since January, three due to a staph infection.

''It's more opportunity for Travis Wilson, Steptoe. We'll have to see how they do,'' Crennel said. ''If they can take the bull by the horns, they'll have a great opportunity to help us.''

Jurevicius update

Joining Jurevicius on that list was offensive lineman Ryan Tucker, who underwent hip surgery during organized training activities. Savage said the Browns have until the roster cut to 75 on Aug. 26 to determine what to do with Jurevicius and Tucker. They could start the regular season on the physically-unable-to-perform list and miss at least the first six weeks.

''Ryan Tucker, we feel good about where he is. He's a little bit further down the line recovery-wise,'' Savage said. ''With Joe, it's a little bit up in the air. We're still hopeful to have him. It could be for the first part of the season, it could be for a little bit later on down the line.''

Brownies

Tight end Steve Heiden returned to the field after off-season back surgery. . . . Savage said the Browns had made a few calls, but nothing was imminent in the search for another cornerback. . . . Crennel has scheduled nine two-a-days, but said he would constantly take the pulse of his experienced team. ''If we need to back up, we will; if we need to turn up the heat, we will,'' he said. . . . Today's practices are scheduled for 8:45 a.m.-10:45 a.m. and 5:30-7:30 p.m. Call 877-6BROWNS for updates.