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2015 Cleveland Browns roster analysis: The running backs

By Eric Szczepinski

Jan 3, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns running back Duke Johnson (29) runs by Pittsburgh Steelers inside linebacker Ryan Shazier (50) during the second quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns running back Duke Johnson (29) runs by Pittsburgh Steelers inside linebacker Ryan Shazier (50) during the second quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 13, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns running back Isaiah Crowell (34) is chased by San Francisco 49ers cornerback Tramaine Brock (26) during a 54 yard run during the fourth quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Browns won 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns running back Isaiah Crowell (34) is chased by San Francisco 49ers cornerback Tramaine Brock (26) during a 54 yard run during the fourth quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Browns won 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

Isaiah Crowell

Age: 23

Experience: 2 years

Contract status: Free agent in 2017

Emerging in 2014 during training camp, the undrafted Crowell gave a burst to the Browns offense as a rookie and was relied on running the ball.

This season, Crowell was the primary feature back while rookie Duke Johnson worked as his compliment. However, under former offensive coordinator John DeFilippo, the running attack didn’t find consistent success all season long.

Crowell lead the Browns in rushing with 706 yards, but only averaged 3.8 yards a carry. Crowell’s touchdown totals dropped from eight rushing touchdowns in 2014 to five total touchdowns this season. Crowell only rushed for one 100-yard game and couldn’t find the same success as opposed to his rookie season.

Part of the problem was the offensive line was not the same in run blocking as when former offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan opened huge holes with his zone scheme for Crowell. But part of the Browns rushing woes also fall on Crowell, who doesn’t have exceptional vision, leading him to often miss open holes and run into a pile of defenders.

There were multiple cases this season where Crowell was missing open running lanes. With the presence of new head coach Hue Jackson, the coaching staff may be able to address Crowell and the Browns run game troubles, and get Crowell back to 2014 form.

2015 stats:

Crowell rushed 185 times for 706 yards, an average of 3.8 yards per carry. His longest run of the year was 54 yards and he rushed for four touchdowns. He added 19 receptions for 182 yards and a touchdown.

2016 outlook:

It was evident this season Crowell is tough to count on as a feature back. However, Hue Jackson will bring a successful run scheme that led to nearly 2,000 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns for Cincinnati this season that will immensely improve the Browns run game. The Browns might stand pat with Crowell and Johnson next season as the tandem, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see another back added to compete and cut into Crowell’s carries.

C. The Browns rushing attack was disappointing in 2015, but Crowell isn’t the only one to get blame. When given the opportunity Crowell showed burst and toughness.. RB. Cleveland Browns. ISAIAH CROWELL

Next: Duke Johnson

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