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How the Cleveland Browns could follow the steps of the 49ers

By Clay Goodwin

CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 14: Kevin Stefanski talks to the media after being introduced as the Cleveland Browns new head coach on January 14, 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 14: Kevin Stefanski talks to the media after being introduced as the Cleveland Browns new head coach on January 14, 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
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DENVER, CO – DECEMBER 30: Fullback Andy Janovich #32 of the Denver Broncos runs into the end zone with a fourth quarter touchdown against the Los Angeles Chargers at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on December 30, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
DENVER, CO – DECEMBER 30: Fullback Andy Janovich #32 of the Denver Broncos runs into the end zone with a fourth quarter touchdown against the Los Angeles Chargers at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on December 30, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /

2. Fullback

One of the big reasons San Francisco had great success in their run game was due to their fullback, Kyle Juszczyk. Fullbacks in the NFL lost some popularity in recent years and some teams do not carry a true fullback on their roster, but would use a tight end or defensive lineman for certain situations. This is not the case for the 49ers.

Juszczyk is a four-time Pro Bowler and led the way for 49er backs all year. He does not get stats for lead blocks, but the Niners and their fans certainly know how helpful he was in the run game. He leads through the holes and takes on the first defender that crosses his path, which is often times a linebacker, safety, or a defensive end to kick out.

The Browns went the last several years without a true fullback. They used tight ends when they wanted an extra lead back, typically short yardage plays or on the goal line. Stefanski loves using a fullback in his wide zone offense. He had a great one in Minnesota with C.J. Ham. Ham earned a trip to the Pro Bowl after his efforts in 2019. The Browns went out and actually traded a seventh round pick for a fullback from Denver. The new Browns fullback is Andy Janovich. Janovich and Juszczyk are very similar in stature as they are 6-foot-1, 238 pounds and 6-foot-1, 240 pounds respectively.

Janovich is very tough and has a high motor. He can be a perfect fit in this new scheme. Leading the way for Chubb and Hunt can create great short yardage success, as well as break open holes for big runs. Browns fans will learn to like Janovich and his hard-nosed play style very quickly.

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