Rookie running back Trent Richardson getting ready for the Browns opener

BEREA, Ohio - The Browns are getting healthy at the right time. Rookie running back Trent Richardson was back at practice again on Wednesday.

The Browns rookie met with the media for the first time since his surgery back on Aug.  9 and said he feels better then he ever has.

When asked if he will play on Sunday, Richardson said it was a coach's decision, but as he gets stronger each day, he will make sure he lets the coaches know he is ready to go.

Ultimately, the decision belongs to head coach Pat Shurmur, but if you read between the lines Shurmur is not planning to start the season against the rush-happy Eagles defense without his stud running back.

Richardson understands why the team is being extra careful about his return. He said he could have played the whole pre-season if he never had his knee cleaned up. But he is glad the team took its time with him and made sure he comes back completely healthy.

Richardson said he feels stronger then he ever has and said he is "120 percent" when asked about how he has recovered from the minor surgery. The rookie running back said, "It killed me to watch preseason games and not being out there carrying the football."

Richardson will get his wish on Sunday, barring any unusual setbacks. The Alabama rookie will make his NFL debut at 1 p.m. against the Philadelphia Eagles.

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