Cleveland Browns: 3 keys to special teams success against the Falcons

The Cleveland Browns must get key aspects of their special teams in order, starting this week against the Atlanta Falcons.

The Cleveland Browns host their first home preseason exhibition against the Atlanta Falcons this Thursday. Among the many things to watch for in the game, special teams comprise the most exciting and important elements in this week’s exhibition.

For many players on the bubble, their play on special teams determines whether they have a spot on the active roster, the practice squad or simply being released. With first cuts happening on Aug. 30, younger players needing to make an impression must stand out both in their position group and on special teams.

Heading into the second preseason exhibition game, three key areas of special teams remain unsettled.

First, who will win the field goal kicking battle? The first preseason game, against the Green Bay Packers, witnessed only one field goal attempt for the Browns as Patrick Murray connected on a 46-yard field goal. Travis Coons, who is the incumbent field goal kicker, performed kickoff duties without a hitch.

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In order for there to be a real kicking competition, both Murray and Coons need opportunities. The difficulty of any kicking competition lies in the unpredictability of preseason exhibitions. The opportunities for field goals may not occur because of how the game plays out.

If no opportunities for field goals present themselves this week, then the kicking competition will continue until one kicker separates themselves from the other. Hopefully, the competition resolves itself this week on the field.

Second, can the Browns’ returners finally catch a kickoff or punt? Raheem Mostert’s difficulties securing kicks raises questions about his viability at the position. If Mostert borrows a pair of Odell Beckham Jr’s sticky gloves, his chances of making the team increases sevenfold. However, Mostert’s chances slip further and further away with each botched kick.

Addressing the issue this week, the Browns signed kick and punt returner Ed Eagan, who returned punts and kickoffs for Northwestern State last season. Eagan creates much-needed competition at the kick return position for Mostert and Corey Coleman. How that competition plays out will determine how much of a role Mostert plays on the team.

Third, which player on the bubble will stand out on Thursday night? Against the Packers, both Ricardo Louis and Joe Schobert made plays on special teams. Outside of running into the kicker, Schobert performed his duties on punt returns and kickoffs admirably. Louis also made a nice tackle in punt coverage. But who else will make plays?

The Browns special teams units demonstrated that active hitting and tackling in practice better prepares players for game-like situations. The Browns kicking game performed light years ahead of other teams this past weekend.

Next: A guide to watching preseason game

Casual fans often overlook the importance of special teams. But appreciating special teams helps the informed fan experience the nuances of preseason play and have a more enjoyable experience.