Josh Cribbs Questionable in Return to Cleveland

Josh Cribbs made a name for himself during his time with the Cleveland Browns. The ex-Kent State star was an instant hit with his dynamic punt and kick returns. Being a fan favorite paid off for him as fans stayed on his side during his constant complaining about contract status, playing time or role in the offense.

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Fans were okay with it because Cribbs always gave everything he had out on the field. Not only was he a great punt and kick returner but he was a demon as a special teams gunner. Cribbs put his body on the line game in and game out. He never fully developed as a wide receiver but made some impact plays as a Wildcat quarterback at times.

Since leaving the Browns Cribbs has bounced around a bit. He showed some bitterness towards the Browns organization even as he was cut by the Oakland Raiders and then later by the New York Jets. Even this week, while talking to Cleveland reporters, he seemed miffed that the Browns didn’t sign him earlier this season when the team was struggling fielding punts, and getting very little in the kick return game. He somehow failed to notice that no other team was interested in him either.

He also went on to say that he was planning to jump into the Dawg Pound if he scored Sunday. He believed he would get a warm reception. He likely figured out he was wrong and later flip flopped and said he would not. He may not even play as he is listed as questionable for the game:

It would be highly ironic if Cribbs was unable to play in his return to Cleveland because of injuries. Besides his constant demands to be used more on offense, the Browns were worried about his body breaking down from all the constant pounding that had been placed on it.

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In his two games since returning to the NFL with the Colts, Cribbs has returned 7 kickoffs for a little over 31 yards on average. He also has returned 8 punts with a long of 18 yards. Not exactly stellar numbers, especially when you take into account that kickoff return yardage includes any yards in the endzone. Cribbs will often return kicks from 7 or more yards deep. Based on his return average that means he tends to give the Colts an average field position around the 24 yard line.

With the amazing talent, that we covered here today, that the Colts have on offense it is highly unlikely Cribbs will see the field there. His lone way to impact the game against his former team is on Special Teams.

You can bet the Browns cover teams are extra aware of Cribbs and his history. They will likely be on a mission to shut him down, and shut him up. They may not get a chance though as Cribbs knee might do that for the Browns.

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