5 areas to watch during Browns first preseason game
By Mark Riley
May 26, 2015; Berea, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns offensive lineman Cameron Erving (74) and defensive lineman Randy Starks (94) during organized team activities at the Cleveland Browns training facility. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
On the opposite side of the ball, the offensive line promises to be one of the strengths of the team, but there remains at least one key to watch: rookie Cameron Erving.
“Our offense will be predicated on our ability to run the football and protect the quarterback, so it does start up front. Hopefully we’ll see some good examples of that on Thursday night.” – Head coach Mike Pettine
The second of the Browns first-round draft picks has already proven his considerable worth, learning every position on the offensive line and filling in on first-, second- and seemingly, eighth-team play. Erving shined in last week’s Orange and Brown scrimmage, and his 6-foot-6, 313-pound frame is perfectly suited for a developing rushing offense, but his pass protection is world class, too.
His footwork and blocking technique appears to be on par with an NFL starter, and no matter where he lines up against Washington, Erving will demonstrate his overwhelming talent and propel this fledgling into stardom.
Next: The kicking game