Cleveland Browns: Overrated, Underrated

Sep 15, 2013; Baltimore, MD, USA; Cleveland Browns offensive lineman Mitchell Schwartz (72) prepares to block Baltimore Ravens linebacker Elvis Dumervil (58) during the first half at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Underrated

Candidates

Mitchell Schwartz – Most Browns fans have something against Schwartz. He was put in his rookie season at right tackle and had a few games where he struggled. He has improved greatly since that time and is now a solid right tackle. The new regime seems to have confidence in him as they moved 2nd round pick Joel Bitonio inside instead of him replacing Schwartz on the outside. In the new Zone Blocking Scheme Schwartz’s improvement should continue and show him to be underrated.

Phil Taylor – Taylor gets little recognition from the national media but is set for a breakout year, before his contract is up. Taylor does a good job of taking on blockers but also is able to push the pocket and provide disruption in the back field. Changing systems throughout his young career hasn’t helped but expect Taylor to be in the discussion for the Pro Bowl by the end of the season, though now he isn’t even on the radar. That makes him underrated.

Andrew Hawkins – Baby Hawk was a steal from the Bengals. He runs amazing routes, is quicker then almost anyone in the league and is tough as nails. In Cincinnati he was the 4th or 5th option every route. Running quick decisive routes requires timing, being hit coming out of his breaks. Being down on their ladder meant he was done with his routes before he was ever looked at by Andy Dalton. In Cleveland expect Hawkins to be the 2nd or 3rd option on many plays. Kyle Shanahan will draw up plays specifically for Hawkins to take advantage of his skills. Hawkins will go from unknown to unbelievable in many people’s eyes this year and that makes him underrated.

Prisco’s Winner

"Underrated: S Tashaun Gipson —­­ He had his breakout season for the Browns in 2013. He has the range you want from the safety spot and showed it off with five interceptions last season."

A player we have talked about before, Gipson could be the key to Mike Pettine’s defense. Jarius Byrd could of been had for a huge contract instead the Browns went forward with Gipson. Being able to lockdown the secondary, with Whitner providing the hitting needed, is vital to allow Pettine to blitz from multiple angles. Gipson’s season last year showed he should be very capable of making Pettine’s defense hum.

Who is overrated/underrated to you? Who do you agree on from our list? Disagree?