Three keys to success for the Cleveland Browns in 2020
By Greg Newland
2. Young players must step up
This is the case for every team, but especially for a team as young as the Browns. Garrett, Mayfield, Denzel Ward, Jedrick Wills, and possibly others will all still be four years and under in the NFL. Yes, a few of these guys have some experience, but most of the Browns’ firepower is extremely young.
The two most important players on this list may be Ward and Wills. Wills will be playing the pivotal left tackle position that has been such a struggle since the retirement of the greatest ever at the position, Joe Thomas. While Wills has the potential, it will be much more difficult for him with and extremely limited offseason. Offensive line coach Bill Callahan will certainly have his hands full but will have Wills ready for the test!
Ward was a tremendous rookie but then struggled with injuries in year two. With a depleted linebacker room and an injury to rookie safety Grant Delpit, it is even more important that Ward stay healthy, and completely lock down one side of the field. So far Ward hasn’t had any hiccups in camp, which is fantastic to see.
Under the radar guys for the 2020 season will be Sione Takitaki and Brandon Phillips who will both see bigger roles at linebacker with the injury to Mack Wilson. Takitaki will be starting year two while Phillips is just a rookie. Baptism by fire is sometimes the best strategy that will certainly occur for these two next year. A strong defensive line up front should help make the transition a little bit easier for both.