Cleveland Browns: 5 storylines to watch in the preseason finale

Cleveland Browns Storyline No. 4: Will Johnny Stanton’s versatility land him on the final 53?

When Stephen Carlson was put on IR with a season-ending knee injury it opened up a few opportunities. Carlson was widely considered a lock to make the team as the fourth-string tight end and special teams contributor.

There were two tight ends on the depth chart behind Carlson: Jordan Franks and Connor Davis. Both were given the opportunity to show what they could do last week against the Giants. However, Franks dropped multiple passes and Davis played well, but then injured his shoulder and ended up on the IR.

The other player given a chance at the position; fullback Johnny Stanton. The multitalented Stanton played well catching both of his targets for 33 yards. Suddenly the conversation began, could Stanton fulfill multiple roles freeing up extra roster spots.

Stanton, a former college quarterback, and tight end, has proven to be a player with a wide skill set. Is it possible he could supplant Andy Janovich and become the team’s fullback as well as fourth-string tight end? Or is it more likely that the thought of Stanton fulfilling multiple roles just sounds enticing and in reality, the Browns would be downgrading at two positions for the sake of a good story?

Only time will tell, but Stanton will get multiple looks at both tight end and fullback this coming Sunday.