Cleveland Browns: 2021 Offensive 53-man roster prediction
By Greg Newland
Running Back and Quarterback
Both the running back and quarterback slots will be straightforward this season. At quarterback, it will be Mayfield and Case Keenum all 16-weeks. Look for the Browns to only carry two quarterbacks to make that extra slot for the kick returner.
If Mayfield or Keenum come into a week slightly banged up, you could see a scenario where the practice squad quarterback dresses just to be overly cautious. In that scenario, you would likely see a guy like Natson not dress and Peoples-Jones or Schwartz take over return duties.
Running back will also be crystal clear for the first two guys. Nick Chubb will get most of the carriers with Kareem Hunt coming in to give him a break or obvious passing downs. The Browns will have the best offensive line in the league, as well as the best running back duo in the league, which is a great luxury to have.
The only question will be the third running back to make the roster. D’Ernest Johnson has been around and been productive when needed, but it feels like the rookie, Demetric Felton is going to get his shot on the roster in 2021.
Felton has tremendous hands, but most of his experience is at running back. If he has a strong preseason and shows some potential, look for Berry to give him the final nod, with Johnson moving on.