Cleveland Browns: 3 players to keep an eye on in the AAF

CINCINNATI, OH - SEPTEMBER 12: Mekale McKay #2 of the Cincinnati Bearcats runs with the ball during the game against the Toledo Rockets at Paul Brown Stadium on September 12, 2014 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OH - SEPTEMBER 12: Mekale McKay #2 of the Cincinnati Bearcats runs with the ball during the game against the Toledo Rockets at Paul Brown Stadium on September 12, 2014 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
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2. Trenton Thompson, Arizona Hotshots, DT

The Arizona Hot Shots have yet to play, but it’s worth tuning into them to keep an eye on one certain player — Trenton Thompson. If that name sounds familiar, it’s because the Browns signed the University of Georgia defensive tackle as an undrafted free agent following the 2018 NFL Draft.

Thompson didn’t last with the Browns as they let him go in July, but he was an interesting addition nonetheless as he had a productive career with the Bulldogs. His best season came in 2016 when he recorded 64 tackles and five sacks for Georgia — with a total of 9.5 tackles for a loss. His best game came in the Liberty Bowl that season when Thompson was credited with six tackles and three sacks against TCU in a 31-23 win.

As for his fit with the Browns, Thompson looked like an option as a depth piece in the three-technique role. He’s listed at 6-foot-4 and 288-pounds and was able to win with both his strength and athleticism. Cleveland still continues to have depth issues at the position, so keeping their eyes on a player in the AAF on the front lines is a good idea — and their previous knowledge of Thompson should lead them to see what he can do in the new league.