Cleveland Browns: Aggressively early look at 53-man 2021 roster

Jan 17, 2021; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Cleveland Browns running back Nick Chubb (24) runs the ball as Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Charvarius Ward (35) defends during the AFC Divisional Round playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 20, 2020; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) catches a pass against Cleveland Browns cornerback Denzel Ward (21) during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

Cornerback

I expect the Browns to carry four cornerbacks to begin the 2021 season. These will be fairly simple, and you won’t hear much argument on these. Denzel Ward, Troy Hill, Greg Newsom, and Greedy Williams look to be the active corners for 2021. If Williams isn’t healthy, you could see a guy like MJ Steward who played a lot in 2021 find a way to squeak out a roster spot.

There is no doubt that Ward will be the no. one corner and Hill will start at the nickel position. Both have proven to be top performers in the league, and we just need to hope that Ward can stay healthy.

If Williams is healthy, it will be a heck of a battle between him and Newsome for the second corner position. The good news is, no matter who wins, the loser will be a great backup option. As Cleveland Browns fans know, injuries seem to happen far too often at this position specifically.

A guy like Steward and Robert Jackson will be strong contenders for the practice squad but don’t really stand a chance unless a series of injuries do occur. A position that was such a struggle in 2020, should be a major strength next season.