2015 Cleveland Browns Roster Analysis: The receivers

Travis Benjamin

Age: 26

Experience: 4 years

Contract status: Free agent in 2016

In his fourth season, Benjamin emerged as the Browns top wide receiver. Coming out of training camp many believed Benjamin would be on the bubble to make the roster. Not only did Benjamin do that but also he had his breakout season during a contract year. Benjamin, a free agent has positioned himself for a nice payday.

In previous seasons Benjamin was the Browns deep threat and was used on gadget plays. This season Benjamin developed into a solid route runner complimenting his deep routes with short and intermediate patterns. Benjamin was the Browns most reliable outside receiving weapon, falling just short of a 1,000-yard season. Benjamin finished the season with career highs with 125 targets, 68 receptions, 966 yards and 5 touchdowns. Lacking offensive playmakers, Benjamin stepped up in a big way for the Browns offense this season.

It would be wise to reward Benjamin by giving him the pay-day he deserves, keeping the emerging receiver in Cleveland for the reasonable future.

2015 Stats:

Benjamin hauled in 68 receptions for 966 yards and five touchdowns.

2016 Outlook:

First and foremost the Browns need to re-sign Benjamin. Benjamin proved to the team and the league he is a versatile wide receiver capable of being a top receiving option. Head Coach Hue Jackson would love to incorporate the speedy Benjamin in his long-term plans at worst as a number two option pending Josh Gordon being reinstated.

Benjamin started the season in exciting fashion scoring four of his five touchdowns in the first three weeks of the season. Benjamin continued to be productive playing with three different quarterbacks and while be a focal point of opposing defenses. Benjamin did a serviceable job being the Browns only consistent receiver and will only get better with the hopeful presence of Josh Gordon back.

Brian Hartline

Age:29

Experience: 7 years

Contract status: Free agent in 2017

The Ohio native signed a two-year deal to play for his hometown team last offseason. Hartline was a reliable possession receiver in the Browns offense. In the early parts of the season Hartline struggled to find his role in the offense. However, as the season went on Hartline found his way in the offense with precise route running and catching ability.

2015 stats:

Hartline hauled in 46 receptions for 523 yards and two touchdowns.

2016 Outlook:

Hartline will be able to find a spot in Hue Jackson’s offense serving as a valuable veteran leader and possession receiver.

The veteran Hartline was a valuable leader and a solid contributor to the Browns receiving core and will continue to be asked to be a pros pro in Hue Jackson’s system.

Next: Taylor Gabriel and Andrew Hawkins