Struggles to expect for the Cleveland Browns rookie class in 2021
By Greg Newland
The Cleveland Browns have multiple rookies who could have a major impact in 2021, but that doesn’t mean their success won’t come without struggles.
The Cleveland Browns come into the 2021 season with a stacked roster. The depth chart is a mixed back of veteran talent, prime of their career talent, as well as some younger talent.
Because of the salary cap, it’s important to keep the roster young. As much as every fan wants a starter at each position in their prime, you just can’t afford to operate that way in the NFL. The key to every great team in the NFL is players that overachieve their contract.
The Browns have eight draft picks from the 2021 NFL Draft class, and at least six of those guys have a strong chance of making the roster. Of those six, there may only be two or three who are contributors in 2021.
However, injuries happen, and you never know what can happen in the NFL. Here are items each rookie will struggle with during their rookie season with the Browns.
Running Back – Demetric Felton
Athleticism helped sixth-round pick, Demetric Felton, overcome being between two positions at UCLA. He has great speed and agility but doesn’t have the size of an outside receiver, or the durability to run between the tackles as a running back.
Felton will struggle to find what works best for him at the next level. Many scouts projected he would become a slot receiver permanently, but the Browns like the idea of him as a third-down back. In order to make it in the NFL, he will have to work hard to improve his craft and should put more focus on being a receiver as a rookie with the Browns.