BEREA - It's the week of the season opener, and Joshua Cribbs is still with the Browns.

Cribbs wants a new contract to replace the six-year, $6.7 million deal he signed in November of 2006. He missed some of the offseason workouts but reported on time and participated in all practices during training camp.

There's been conjecture that Cribbs might hold out at the start of the regular season, but he was on the practice field Monday as the Browns began preparations for Sunday's home game against the Minnesota Vikings. That's an indication that progress has been made in negotiations.

"They're starting to talk dialogue," Cribbs said. "That's all I wanted was for some dialogue to happen. I'm confident. Definitely."

Cribbs' demands for a new contract could carry more weight if his playing time as a receiver increases. He's received considerable practice time and could be a starter if coach Eric Mangini doesn't feel confident with either of the two rookie receivers - Mohamed Massaquoi and Brian Robiskie.

Cribbs will continue to return punts and kicks, but early in camp he said that he might have to give up coverage duties if his time at receiver increases. Mangini later said that he hadn't talked to Cribbs about a reduced role on coverage units.

Cribbs is anxious for an expanded offensive role.

"This regime actually wants me to play as a receiver," he said. "You're going to be one of the guys that we get the ball to. Not just for gadgets and not just for reverses. They have to account for you every single play."

n NO CONCERNS: Safety Brodney Pool isn't worried about suffering another concussion. The second-round draft choice in 2005 had three concussions prior to this season, and it's believed that he suffered a fourth in a preseason game against the Detroit Lions.

"I'm not going to be careful," Pool said. "That's not in the back of my mind."

n LOOKING GOOD: Defensive lineman Shaun Rogers participated in individual drills Monday. Since the media isn't allowed to watch practice beyond the first 30 minutes, it's not known if he took part in team drills.

Rogers missed all four preseason games after participating in an intrasquad scrimmage Aug. 9. It's not known if he's been injured, but he appears to be in better shape than he was last season.

One theory is that Mangini is trying to keep the valuable Rogers well rested for the regular season.

n ROUNDING IT OUT: Six players have been signed to the practice squad - defensive back Brandon Anderson, linebacker Titus Brown, running back Chris Jennings, receiver Lance Leggett, offensive lineman Pat Murray and defensive lineman Brian Schaefering. All were waived by the Browns last Saturday.

Two more players can be added to the practice squad. Possible additions are linebacker Marcus Benard and defensive back Bret Lockett. Both were waived Sunday and had to clear the 24-hour waiver process before they can be signed to the practice squad.

n TIME TO VOTE: Players will vote on team captains Wednesday. Mangini said that two captains from the offense, defense and special teams are usually selected, unless there's a heavy demand for a third player.

n SUBTLE JAB: Vikings coach Brad Childress may or may not have had Mangini on his mind when he was asked which quarterback - Tarvaris Jackson or Sage Rosenfels - would be Brett Favre's backup.

"I might not name one until Sunday," he said. "But at least we know who the starter is."

mmclain@tribtoday.com