Struggles to expect for the Cleveland Browns rookie class in 2021
By Greg Newland
Safety – Richard LeCounte III
In the fifth round, the Browns went with Richard LeCounte III, a safety from Georgia. This was one of the few surprise picks by Andrew Berry because of the injury concerns that come with LeCounte.
After seeing the field as a true freshman and starting 13 of 14 games as a sophomore, LeCounte was struck on a dirt bike by multiple cars.
The injuries didn’t require surgery but were considered serious. LeCounte’s biggest struggle as a rookie is simple, getting healthy. It will be a challenge for him to take and slow and allow his body to heal, but it’s exactly what he needs.
Linebacker – Tony Fields II
In round five the Browns went with an athletic linebacker from West Virginia, Tony Fields II. He fits the mold perfectly for the Browns attacking defense, but he is undersized for the position at 6-foot-0, 222 pounds.
Fields will have to find a way to overcome being undersized and not gobbled up by offensive linemen on inside running plays. Although Fields fits the 4-2-5 scheme well, the linebackers must be efficient vs. the run.
Putting on some muscles and working his technique for shedding blockers will be extremely important for Fields as a rookie.
Defensive Tackle – Tommy Togiai
With their second pick in round four, the Cleveland Browns drafted defensive tackle, Tommy Togiai from Ohio State. Togiai had a splendid career with the Buckeyes and could have an opportunity to see the field as a rookie if he can improve.
Like Fields, Togiai is undersized for an interior defensive lineman, and he must continue to work on his technique given his short arms. In the middle of the defense, he will have to work to hold his ground against the run, or he will become a pass-rushing specialist only.