Cleveland Browns: Standouts from Preseason Week 4
By Randy Gurzi
Matthew Dayes, Running Back
A seventh-round pick out of North Carolina State in 2017, Matthew Dayes didn’t get much action on offense as a rookie. He wound up getting just five rush attempts and four receptions on the season. Where he made most of his impact though was as a kick returner.
Dayes had 437 yards returning the ball and that’s likely his calling card to the roster this season. That doesn’t mean he can’t convince the team to give him more carries in 2018 if he does crack the 53.
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On Thursday night, he made his case for a spot. His first touch was a short pass from Baker Mayfield, which Dayes took for a 30-yard gain. Two plays later, he ripped off a 19-yard carry.
Dayes finished his night with 77 yards on eight rushes and a touchdown. Dayes also showed out with a game-high 42 rush as his longest gain. He added a total of 34 yards through the air as well.
Nate Orchard, Defensive End
Nate Orchard stepped up when he needed it most. Fighting for a spot on the defensive line, Orchard hasn’t had the best camp. On Thursday, he made a remarkable interception which he returned for a touchdown. Cleveland added a two-point conversion and took a 25-0 lead into halftime.
Orchard had his struggles documented on HBO’s ‘Hard Knocks.’ He particularly struggled in the second game against the Buffalo Bills as he delivered pressure but missed the tackle repeatedly.
Its likely he’s on the chopping block, but his good performance in Week 4 gives him a chance for the Browns to consider keeping him around.