2021 Cleveland Browns: 4 surprise cuts to get to 53
By Greg Newland
Cleveland Browns surprise cut No. 2 – KhaDarel Hodge, Wide Receiver
Just two weeks ago I had convinced myself that KhaDarel Hodge was likely on the outside looking in on making the roster, but then he had a fantastic final outing vs. the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday Night. He had two great catches including a dynamic touchdown catch from Baker Mayfield in the first quarter.
Not only was Hodge a bigger wide receiver target who has seen a lot of offensive snaps the last three seasons, but he was also a big contributor on special teams as well. That alone was enough justification to keep him in my opinion.
Unfortunately, this offense can’t support six wide receivers. Stefanski’s offense is very run-centric with high utilization of two and three tight end sets. Hodge will be set to hit waivers, and I think a team who is struggling at the position will be thrilled to gobble him up.
If he is not claimed, the Browns will likely look to bring Hodge back after placing players like Jacob Phillips on injured reserved. With the release of JoJo Natson (return specialists), I am a bit surprised to not see the Browns keep six wide receivers just for depth purposes.
This is a risky move assuming that Hodge will clear waivers, but there will certainly be other options for the Browns if he is no longer available. At the end of the day, Berry and Stefanski were comfortable moving on if necessary.