Browns players who must step up in 2015 (Part 2)
By Mark Riley
Oct 12, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals tight end Rob Housler against the Washington Redskins at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
With the departure of budding star Jordan Cameron, the Browns’ tight end crew must really develop quickly. Acquiring fifth-year tight end Rob Housler, a 6-foot-5, 250-pounder from the Arizona Cardinals, was a savvy move by general manager Ray Farmer. Housler is steady, if unheralded, but has the type of frame that gets the yards needed in short-yardage situations. If you need three yards, Housler will get you three yards.
Related: 2015 Position Preview – Tight Ends
He is a genuine terror in the seam, and has tackle-breaking capability. I believe he comes in sort of under the radar, but will prove to be an asset here. If Johnson becomes the out-of-the-backfield pass-catching threat I believe he will be, Housler’s ability to find himself wide open in the seam becomes a real possibility.
This should be true for Gary Barnidge, as well, who has been solid as a blocker, but certainly could realize more opportunities to be a pass catching threat if Johnson develops.
Next: The Head Coach