BEREA, Ohio -- Brian Hoyer spent a long, merciless winter in Cleveland rehabbing his right knee so hed be ready for the day he could run on the field again. Hes never worked harder at anything in his life. The Browns are his team, and have been since he was a little kid. And now that hes back -- not 100 per cent, but getting there -- the homegrown quarterback, whose promising 2013 season was cut short after only two starts by a serious injury, isnt about to let go of his dream of leading an NFL team without a fight. Cleveland can draft a franchise quarterback next week. Hoyer believes the Browns already have one. "I know how I feel about myself," he said. "I know how my teammates feel. Im trying to go out and prove it to these new coaches and all I can really ask for is a chance and I think Ill get that. Im going out there every day, and until someone tells me otherwise, I think Im the starter for this team." Six months after surgery on a torn anterior cruciate ligament, Hoyer participated in Clevelands first voluntary minicamp practice Tuesday to rave reviews. It was a significant step for the 28-year-old, who showed poise and potential in winning his first two starts before he was injured while sliding at the end of scramble against Buffalo. Hoyer was sharp during the portion of practice open to media members. He didnt show any limitations while making cuts, and displayed nice footwork while firing pinpoint passes. If not for the brace on his right knee, there would have been no evidence Hoyer had been hurt. Following the indoor workout, Hoyer was upbeat and somewhat relieved. "It was awesome," he said. "I felt really good, which was no surprise to me. I felt like I was prepared for this for a while. Its just good to play football again." Hoyer has been cleared to do individual work, but not take part in team drills. The Browns dont want to take any unnecessary risks with Hoyer. But that didnt stop him from pleading with new Browns coach Mike Pettine to let him jump behind centre during 11-on-11 drills. "He begged me to be able to jump in there for the team stuff and I had to play head coach for a minute and tell him no," Pettine said. "But again, thats the way he is. Thats the way hes made up, ultimate competitor, so I think he firmly believes that its his job." Hoyer spent three seasons sitting behind Tom Brady, then made one start during a year in Arizona before getting his shot last year with the Browns. Hes aware Cleveland could use the No. 4 overall pick next week on a quarterback. Theres a chance in a few weeks Hoyer could find himself competing with someone like Texas A&M star Johnny Manziel. How would he react? "Just be myself," he said. "I have to do what I do on a daily basis and work hard. Thats all I know how to do." Hoyer isnt the only quarterback trying to make an impression this week. Vince Young, who hasnt played in an NFL regular-season game since 2011, has three days to convince the Browns he can help them. The 30-year-old said hes motivated to resume a career after being sidetracked the past few seasons. "The fire is lit always," Young said. "One thing a lot of people dont know, I love this game so much." Young has been given no guarantees other than hell get a chance. He was with Green Bay late last summer, but got released. Young was reluctant to discuss why his pro career has stalled. "Im just happy to have the opportunity playing for a historic team, a respectful team," Young said. "Its a long history for the Browns. "Im just going to make the best of it." Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon has admired Young for years. Gordons mom taught Young in elementary school and has looked up to the fellow Texan. From what Gordon can tell, Young isnt done yet. "Oh yeah," he said. "Hes still got it." 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