Three takeaways from Day 10 of Cleveland Browns training camp
By Randy Gurzi
3. Willies, Strong making receiver decision tough
Entering the first game of the season, the Browns have Derrick Willies and Jaelen Strong fifth and sixth on the depth chart. On one side of the chart, Willies is behind Jarvis Landry and Rashard Higgins, whereas Strong is listed on the other side behind Odell Beckham, Jr. and Antonio Callaway.
With that being the case, it means Willies and Strong are fighting for what could end up being the final spot on the 53-man roster — unless, of course, they force the team to go deep and keep six receivers. Whatever the Browns decide to do here, both these players are doing everything they can to make the decision tough on the staff.
Once Landry left the field after trying to tough it out despite being hurt, that opened the door for these two to get some work with Baker Mayfield (OBJ was out sick). Strong was standing out throughout the day as he ran crisp routes and caught everything thrown his way.
Willies, however, struggled more. He had a few mishaps but then made a highlight-reel touchdown catch, which required just one hand. He made the play even though T.J. Carrie — who has had a strong camp — was draped all over him.
The catch was good from 50-yards out and Willies showed some emotion as he punted the ball in excitement afterward. That got the attention of the head coach as Freddie Kitchens said he liked the passion the young wideout showed after the play.