2016 Cleveland Browns roster analysis: The wide receivers

Ricardo Louis

Age: 22

Experience: 1 year 

Contract Status: Free Agent in 2020

The Browns weren’t finished drafting receivers in the 2016 draft following the selection of Corey Coleman. The team selected Ricardo Louis in the fourth round, 116th overall out of Auburn University. The rookie receiver saw an increased role when Coleman was sidelined. From weeks 3-8, Louis played over 60 percent of the snaps each week. From Week 9 to the end of the season, Louis played in less than 11 percent of snaps each game.

Although Louis’ role on offense was inconsistent, he served as a player on special teams. He embraced his special teams role as he forced one fumble and recovered two. Special teams coach Chris Tabor also tried Louis as a kick returner in four games. Louis returned nine kicks for an average of 18.2 yards per return.

As a receiver, Louis looked raw and inexperienced. Coming out of Auburn the concern was he was not fully developed with his route tree and he had inconsistent hands. Auburn used him as a gadget player, as they created touches for him on sweeps and designed plays. When it comes to solely winning against defensive backs, Louis is raw.

2016 Stats:

Tgt  Rec  Yds  Td 

 35  18   205   0 

2017 Outlook: 

A full offseason of development will be key for Louis. As he continues to work on catching the ball with consistency and learning how to play receiver, he could develop a larger role in 2017. Louis is one of a few young, talented and inexperienced receivers on the roster. With his size and speed, Louis can push for a job playing the role of a big slot if he continues to work out the flaws in his game.