AP

The Browns needed a roster spot to be able to add quarterback Austin Davis, and the team created it by placing rookie cornerback Charles Gaines on injured-reserve/designated for return.

Teams can use that designation only once per season on a player, making him eligible to return to practice in six weeks and be activated in eight weeks.

Using the IR/eligible to return designation on a rookie backup cornerback — Gaines was a sixth-round pick who made the team after having a strong preseason — indicates the Browns are pretty confident none of their regulars are going to get hurt early in the season. Adding Davis and placing Gaines on IR/designated for return are the first personnel moves the team has made since general manager Ray Farmer began a 30-day suspension on Monday.

The Browns used the designation last year on defensive lineman John Hughes, who got hurt in late October and was able to return late in the season.