The bad news is the Cleveland Browns are a mess. The good news is they had a pretty nice draft class and seem to be moving in the right direction. The goal in Cleveland this season should include two things; Tank for a top draft pick and find a new head coach. Hue Jackson’s disorganization at the Senior Bowl practices probably speaks volumes to how things are run in Cleveland. Nevertheless, what should you keep an eye on towards training camp for the Cleveland Browns in 2017?
3 Position Battles To Watch:
- Quarterback: Cody Kessler, DeShone Kizer, Brock Osweiler
Yes, this is what the Browns have to work with in 2017. No one can fault them for trading for Osweiler when the Texans gifted them a second round pick back. Kessler was actually better than expected as a rookie but will never be a franchise quarterback. Kizer is the big wildcard here. He has a big arm but his accuracy issues will likely haunt him.
2. Wide Receiver: Kenny Britt, Corey Coleman, Rashard Higgins, Ricardo Lewis, Jordan Payton
Just in Browns fashion, they let the one good thing they had going in Terrelle Pryor leave for nothing in free agency. Instead, they gave Kenny Britt a big contract, which seems to be a mistake. Coleman has battled injuries and was way too over hyped going into the draft process. Higgins, Lewis, and Payton were hold overs from the 2016 draft and will need to take that next step forward.
3. Right Tackle: Shon Coleman, Roderick Johnson, Cam Erving
The Browns team for all their faults actually have a solid offensive line. Joe Thomas, Joel Bitonio, and company should help Cleveland become more competitive in 2017. Offseason additions of Kevin Zeitler and J.C. Tretter make this line scary. The one question mark is at right tackle where the trio above will battle it out.
Ready To Breakout: Emmanuel Ogbah
Ogbah was the first pick in the 2nd round back in 2016. While the Browns defense isn’t conducive to his style, he recorded 5.5 sacks in year one. Now with the addition of Myles Garrett in town, Ogbah will get to run wild. There’s a ton of upside here.
Rookie To Watch: Myles Garrett
Speaking of that Garrett guy, yeah he’s going to be good. Garrett is simply a freak of nature and will follow the trend of great pass rushers such as Khalil Mack and Von Miller. In year one it’s not out of the question Garrett is a double digit sack guy. Then again, maybe it takes some time as Jadeveon Clowney didn’t figure it out immediately either.
Fantasy Sleeper: Zane Gonzalez
Kickers are people too! In an offense that figures to struggle, enter Gonzalez who could have his fair share of field goal attempts. The former Arizona State product is regarded as one of the best kickers in the history of college football. Considering he is a rookie, Gonzalez would be a guy to sign for multiple years in dynasty leagues.
