Cleveland Browns: Projecting the 53-man roster
By Shane Carter
Wide Receiver: 6
Losing Terrelle Pryor was big, especially with a young quarterback group, which is why the signing of Kenny Britt was so important. Veteran leadership is important, and the other receivers are going into their second seasons (Alford’s third).
The health of Coleman will be a big issue this season, as well as how other receivers like Higgins and Louis step up. Alford and Payton look like they’ll mostly contribute from special teams but with health questions, don’t be surprised if you see either or both work the slot on the field.
Tight End: 3
David Njoku
Seth DeValve
Three’s company and it’s good to have it. David Njoku looks like the next Pro-Bowl tight end and Seth DeValve is going into his second year looking to form one of the better tight end duos in the league. Throw in Telfer to help with blocking and play on special teams and you have what looks like a formidable group.
Offensive Line: 9
Roderick Johnson
Nine may seem like a lot but not when you consider the troubles this team had last season. The first five names I listed (Thomas – Coleman) are who I expect the starting five to be, but the injury concerns for Tretter and Bitonio are still there.
Marcus Martin is not a better lineman than Cam Erving, but after watching Erving play center last season, keeping him at tackle and letting Martin backup Tretter seems like the preferred option.
Drango knows both guard spots and is viable there, but is not going to over take the two guards with their two big contracts. Roderick Johnson is a rookie but is who may wind up being Joe Thomas‘s successor. Only time will tell.