Cleveland Browns: 5 players vital to 2018 success
By Randy Gurzi
There’s plenty of reason for optimism around the Cleveland Browns this season, but these five players are the most vital to their success or failure in 2018
After winning just one game the past two seasons, the Cleveland Browns went all in on fixing their roster this offseason. They made a ton of moves in both the 2018 NFL Draft and free agency — as well as a couple wise trades for veteran starters at some key positions like quarterback and wide receiver.
The end result is a new look and a strong optimism about their future. It has yet to be seen if it will all work out, but there seems to be no way they don’t perform better than the past couple seasons.
In order to guarantee it though, the Browns will need some of their key players to step up. Here are five such members of their roster who will help determine their success — or failure ‚— in 2018.
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5. Duke Johnson, RB
He may not necessarily be the starter, but running back Duke Johnson will be a big part of the offense this season. He comes in ahead of starter Carlos Hyde because of the fact that Hyde could be replaced with second-round pick Nick Chubb.
Both of those players bring the same powerful style of play that can wear defenses down. Johnson however, is the home run hitter that can take advantage of a tired defense. His speed and ability to make people miss in the open field can change a game.
He can also dominate as a pass catcher, which makes him uniquely able to destroy opponents both by ground and by air. New offensive coordinator Todd Haley will love having such a weapon at his disposal and Johnson will have plenty of chances to prove his worth.