Cleveland Browns: 3 Strongest positions heading into 2018
By Randy Gurzi
1. Running Back
Last, but definitely not least, we have the running backs. From their 2016 roster, the Brons only retained one back — Duke Johnson. He was a weapon with the ball in his hands and led the team in receptions with 74 in 2017. He’s amazing out of the backfield, but they haven’t fully utilized him as a runner.
He may get more chances in that role this season, but it could be hard considering the changes they made to the rest of the running back room.
For that role, they look to lean heavily on free agent pickup Carlos Hyde. He cemented his status as a starter with a great preseason and was beyond effective moving the chains.
A former Ohio State star, Hyde’s also underrated catching the ball out of the backfield. His abilities make it seem like the Browns could have their first 1,000-yard back in years.
What may stand in the way of that is rookie Nick Chubb. While Hyde will be the starter, the rookie displayed exceptional running ability as well. His vision, poise, and power are beyond his years and it may be hard to keep him on the sidelines once he gets rolling.
Next. 3 players I’m sold on in 2018. dark
Todd Haley has said he plans to go with the hot hand here, which may be hard considering they’re all so good. This is easily the biggest strength of the entire Cleveland Browns roster in 2018.