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Cleveland Browns: 5 players vital to 2018 success

By Randy Gurzi

ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: Denzel Ward of Ohio State poses with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being picked #4 overall by the Cleveland Browns during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: Denzel Ward of Ohio State poses with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being picked #4 overall by the Cleveland Browns during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /
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CLEVELAND, OH – DECEMBER 10: Josh Gordon #12 of the Cleveland Browns catches a ball durning warm-ups before the game against against the Green Bay Packers at FirstEnergy Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH – DECEMBER 10: Josh Gordon #12 of the Cleveland Browns catches a ball durning warm-ups before the game against against the Green Bay Packers at FirstEnergy Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

3. Josh Gordon, WR

Suspended for the better part of three seasons, Josh Gordon is fresh off his first full offseason since after the 2013 year. He showed glimpses of himself after finally returning in 2017, but this year he should be even better given the amount of work he’s gotten in.

And the Browns will need him to be on top of his game.

Yes, this roster is deeper at wide out than ever before with Gordon joined by Jarvis Landry, Corey Coleman and Antonio Callaway. Still, none of them can do what Gordon can.

Related Story: Gordon set to repay team’s patience

The former second-round supplemental pick is the most complete pass catcher on the team. He’s got the speed to get deep, the route running ability to be a possession target when necessary and can win the 50-50 ball with his insane athleticism and strength.

While Landry led the NFL in receptions last season, he doesn’t stretch a field like ‘Flash’ Gordon can. In 2013, Gordon went for a league-leading 1,646 yards — averaging 18.9 yards per catch (stats via NFL.com). Then there’s Coleman, who can simply fly on the field, but isn’t as polished or nearly as complete as Gordon.

He’s the most well-rounded receiver the Browns have and they need him on top of his game this season. If he is, their offense could be great.

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