Cleveland Browns: Running backs to consider in free agency
By Randy Gurzi
Jeremy Hill, Cincinnati Bengals
The former LSU product, Jeremy Hill, came into the NFL and looked like the next big thing at the position. Then, he slowly saw his star fade and how hits free agency with a whimper. That doesn’t mean his career is over, but it could mean he doesn’t get a sizable contract.
More from Dawg Pound Daily
- Cleveland Browns critics continue to misplace their judgement
- 3 Cleveland Browns players who don’t deserve another season in 2023
- How the Browns could maximize Nick Chubb in 2023
- Can Deshaun Watson get to Patrick Mahomes level for Cleveland Browns?
- 3 Cleveland Browns who should see an expanded role in 2023 and 1 who should not
Considering the likelihood of drafting a rookie for the position — and the presence of Johnson — that lack of a huge contract should be appealing to the Browns. Hill still had nine touchdowns in 2016, which was the last season he got extended work. He may not be the guy who will break off several 100-yard games, but he can be the enforcer while Duke plays the home run hitter.
He also has experience with Hue Jackson, who was the Bengals offensive coordinator the first two seasons Hill was in the NFL. Those were also Hill’s most effective years.
Jerick McKinnon, Minnesota Vikings
The former understudy to Adrian Peterson, Jerick McKinnon finds himself a free agent the same time as AP. McKinnon is most famous for being a huge part of the Georgia Southern upset over Florida back in 2013.
He’s more than that though, as McKinnon has been a great pro for the Vikings. Even so, he seems like an odd fit for the Browns. He plays a similar role to that of Duke Johnson, evidenced by his 51 receptions a season ago.
Next: Browns reportedly will sign DE Chris Smith
That doesn’t mean he shouldn’t be considered. McKinnon has shown flashes of being talented enough to be the guy, and if he stays available long enough, his price tag could become affordable.