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3 Most likely Cleveland Browns breakout stars in 2020

By Randy Gurzi

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - SEPTEMBER 29: Karl Joseph #42 of the Oakland Raiders is seen during the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 29, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - SEPTEMBER 29: Karl Joseph #42 of the Oakland Raiders is seen during the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 29, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /
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BALTIMORE, MD – OCTOBER 13: Andrew Billings #99 of the Cincinnati Bengals looks on during the first half against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on October 13, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD – OCTOBER 13: Andrew Billings #99 of the Cincinnati Bengals looks on during the first half against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on October 13, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

2. Andrew Billings, Defensive Tackle

With all the moves made by first-year general manager Andrew Berry, it could be easy to have forgotten about the addition of Andrew Billings. There were flashier signings such as former Atlanta Falcons tight end Austin Hooper or former Raiders safety Karl Joseph. Then there were some huge names like Grant Delpit in the draft.

Heck, there was even a lot of attention paid to the offensive line — and with good reason. After struggling with Greg Robinson and Chris Hubbard at offensive tackle, the Browns added Jack Conklin in free agency and Jedrick Wills, Jr. in the draft.

Those two additions were greatly needed, but you could argue that the signing of nose tackle Andrew Billings was just as necessary. Cleveland struggled just as much to stop the run as they did keeping Baker Mayfield upright. On the season, the Browns surrendered 2,315 yards while allowing an average of 5.0 yards per rushing attempt. No team is going to be successful giving up yardage like that on the ground.

Billings might not have been a splashy signing but it was one that will have a huge impact. He will likely play on early-downs while giving way to Larry Ogunjobi or Sheldon Richardson on passing downs. With his ability to plug gaps and slow down the rushing attack, the Browns talented pass rushers on the defensive line will have more opportunities on third-and-long to get after the quarterback.

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