Browns vs Packers: Preseason Week 1 Offensive Takeaways

Terrelle Pryor continued his excellent wide receiver play versus Green Bay, showing that he has made phenomenal progress at wide receiver since last season. He has shown the ability to beat press coverage, find holes in zones and make difficult catches downfield. If his progress continues, he could be a great receiver.

One area in which Pryor needs to progress is in run blocking. He does a good job when split out wide, the problem occurs when Pryor is asked to run block in the box. As a big receiver, Pryor could add another dimension to the offense with an ability to block a linebacker in the box. He missed two key blocks in the box against the Packers and focusing on this part of his game will increase his value.

Outside of Pryor, the other wide receivers looked nominal. Nominal is actually a compliment given the make-up of the wide receiver room. With Andrew Hawkins, Josh Gordon and Corey Coleman on the sidelines, the Browns receivers were comprised of mainly rookies, second-year players and undrafted free agents.

One receiver making an impression is Rashard Higgins, who ran excellent routes and made a spectacular catch in the end zone from Cody Kessler. Higgins’ speed on the field is much better than his combine 40-yard dash time. Provided his knee injury is not serious, he could develop into an excellent wide receiver.

Next: Running Backs