3 most impactful rookies for the Cleveland Browns in 2020
By Greg Newland
These 3 rookies will be the most impactful for the Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns go into the 2020 season with a ton of firepower on offense. They have pro-bowl players at all five major positions. While 2019 was a huge disappointment, the expectations are once again higher than ever. Fans may not be able to handle yet another letdown.
Is there reason to believe too much pressure will be put on Baker Mayfield for next season? Possibly, but if this proves to be too much, maybe he isn’t the guy we thought he was. Mayfield has made a career on playing with a chip on his shoulder and has often played his best football when the spotlight is on him. Look for 2020 to be no different and for him to cement himself as the Browns franchise quarterback.
While the defense has more question marks; Myles Garrett, Olivier Vernon, Mack Wilson, and Denzel Ward will anchor a unit that has the potential to be great. Injuries and suspensions got in the way last year, but a beefed-up defensive line should set the Browns up for success.
Even with a loaded roster, the Browns will be hoping to get extensive help and production from rookies. If you look at past Super-Bowl champions, you will see a correlation of having multiple first or second-year guys who are major contributors to the team’s success.
With a limited offseason and shortened preseason, rookies will have an even tougher transition from college to the professional level. While veterans will be fine jumping into the regular season with only six weeks of camp and a few preseason snaps, the repetitions and coaching are far more important to the young guys.
It’s tough to think about it this way but playing in the NFL is some of these rookies’ first-ever jobs. Not only do they have to adjust to the speed and physicality of the game, but they must also learn how to be a pro which includes training, eating, and preparing on a weekly basis. It may seem easy to fans because of the money involved, but there is no doubt this is a learning experience.
The Browns were graded highly for their 2020 draft picks. Here are three rookies that will have the biggest impact on the 2020 season.