3 Bold predictions for Cleveland Browns 2021 training camp
By Randy Gurzi
1. JOK steps up in LB battle
There’s going to be an interesting battle at linebacker for the Cleveland Browns during training camp. Right now, the only player who seems guaranteed to start is free-agent addition, Anthony Walker. The former Indianapolis Colts starter has 57 career games and 48 starts under his belt with 343 tackles and three interceptions to his credit.
After that, it’s anyone’s guess. Jacob Phillips was a third-round pick in 2020 and could be in the mix to start and there’s also Mack Wilson and Sione Takitaki. Cleveland even has veteran Malcolm Smith in the mix, who played well last season for them.
There will be a battle between all of them for starting spots and even a place on the team but don’t count out the rookies Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah or Tony Fields. Those two seem to be great fits in Joe Woods’ defensive scheme, especially JOK.
A second-round pick from Notre Dame, Owusu-Koramoah was in consideration at No. 26 for the Browns but they elected to go with Greg Newsome. They were elated to land him still in the second round and this final prediction is that he will prove to be ready for the next step as he stands out in the battle for a starting spot.
Next. Browns 53-man roster prediction. dark
His ability in coverage will give him the edge and at the very least, he will be the linebacker out there in nickel sets lining up next to Walker — which would be quite the accomplishment for any rookie.