Cleveland Browns: 5 Cardinals to watch in Week 15

Kyler Murray

As it does with most NFL teams, it all starts with the quarterback and Murray is no exception. The rookie signal-caller has already thrown for over 3,000 yards and maintained a 64% completion percentage through the first 13 games of his career.

In addition to the 16 touchdowns Murray has thrown, he also has just shy of 450 yards rushing with another 4 touchdowns with his legs. Despite his size (5-10, 200lbs) he has proven that he can be a game-changing playmaker at the NFL level. Even though it’s not a measurable, Murray passes the eye test.

Murray’s arm is strong, he can throw from many different platforms, and when on schedule he is a very accurate passer. Although Murray is dangerous with his legs, he doesn’t leave the pocket prematurely when his first read isn’t there. In short, what Murray is doing is something that can be sustained.

However, like any rookie, he can be exploited. In his last outing, for the second time this season, he threw more interceptions than touchdowns. It was also a season-high for Murray with three interceptions on the day. Most of Murray’s interceptions have come in situations when his footwork has been compromised when scrambling outside of the pocket.

If the Cleveland Browns get pressure early, Murray has shown that he will leave the pocket, but he does keep his eyes downfield. The Browns need to take good angles in their pass-rushing pursuit and make Murray throw with poor footwork. If the Browns aren’t able to fluster the rookie and confuse him with disguised coverages and blitz packages, they could be in for a long afternoon in the desert.