Cleveland Browns: Grades from loss vs. Dolphins

Wide Receivers: D

Statistically, this was by far the worst game so far this season for Cleveland’s wide receiver unit. Though this is clearly partially due to the absence of rookie Corey Coleman, the Browns failed to step up as a committee to replace him.

Many receivers played and were targeted, more than usual in fact. But only part-time quarterback Terrelle Pryor got into a groove as he led with 144 receiving yards. Also, Pryor impressed with his blocking on the edge, allowing running backs to gain large chunks of yardage. Pryor seemed to do everything at the position and at others, from making contested catches to blocking to running swiftly after the catch.

Besides Pryor though, it was really a struggle for Cleveland receivers all game long. Surprisingly, rookie Ricardo Louis recorded three receptions for a total of 40 yards, making him the second-most productive Browns receiver on the day. Andrew Hawkins caught two passes for 14 yards as well, and rookie Rashard Higgins was targeted but had no receptions.

Based on how well the Browns were running the ball, it would have made sense for them to have a more productive game on the ground. However, they hindered their own ability to maximize the potential they had on offense by putting so many receivers into the game at the same time. But the play of the receivers could have been much better, even though they were not put in the best position to succeed.