Cleveland Browns: Studs and duds from season finale loss against Ravens

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BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – DECEMBER 30: Cornerback Marlon Humphrey #29 of the Baltimore Ravens defends tight end David Njoku #85 of the Cleveland Browns on an incomplete pass in the fourth quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on December 30, 2018 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

Stud: David Njoku

Much like the rest of the Browns offense, David Njoku could not get much going in the first half. Despite the Browns throwing the ball often in the first half, Njoku did not register a target. Although he had a slow start, Njoku was vital in the second half, making a couple key plays.

Njoku made his first catch of the game with just under three minutes left in the third quarter, and it was arguably one of the best catches that he has made in his career. Mayfield decided to heave a pass downfield to Njoku, despite the tight end being tightly covered. But Njoku was able to use his size to box the defender out, leap up, and make the 42-yard reception.

Njoku would only make two more catches in the game, but both were important plays for the Browns offense. With the Browns trailing two possessions, the offense was buried in Ravens territory needing a touchdown. Njoku’s two catches did not go for big yardage, but he was able to turn short gains into good yardage, helping the Browns push downfield.

He finished the game with only three catches for 62 yards, but all three of his receptions were vital in helping the Browns get points. It may not be the game that fans would want to see, but his plays were important in keeping drives going when the Browns needed points.

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