Culture Change: The myth of Cleveland Browns receiver Jarvis Landry

The Cleveland Browns are preparing for next week’s game with an eye toward the Christmas. Thus, I hope you enjoy the Myth of Jarvis Landry.

T’was the night before Cleveland Browns gameday. And all through the land, not a fan was happy, not even those who own the brand.

But Hark! A noise that rose such a clatter. Even wide receiver Jarvis Landry hobbled along to see what was the matter. Then he saw it, and examined it with care. Then he observed, “The Browns don’t have a quarterback who can throw the ball in the air.”

Even though he was proud to be a Brown, he realized that no one was healthy, or even smart enough, to get a first down. Then suddenly, Jarvis knew what to do, for he knew the coaches had no clue. “I will play quarterback and run the ball like a vulture. Why? I might even change the culture!”

As ridiculous as this may sound, we have all heard Browns fans completely believe this all to be true. If one reads Browns twitter, one will think the Browns only need to get the ball in Jarvis’ hands to win football games. This might be the case if Jarvis was Iron Man. But he is not.

Cleveland sadly, has started to believe in the man, the legend, the myth of Jarvis Landry. Jarvis has lined up at quarterback. Jarvis has run the ball from the running back position. Sometimes he even catches passes as a wide receiver (as long as it is not over the middle because then he would have to make a “business decision”) But most importantly, Jarvis has changed the culture.

His accomplishments are so great, that even a hint of criticism is met with outlandish vitriol and hatred. Jarvis is the man who lifted the Browns from last place. And he did so with haste.

But the Myth of Jarvis Landry is far different from the reality of Jarvis Landry.

Reality is, Jarvis has not been productive on the field. He’s not involved in the passing game to actually affect the game. His play at quarterback resulted in one touchdown and one touchdown-killing fumble. And as for changing the culture? I am sure the Odell Beckham Jr. saga speaks to that job.

But excuses for Jarvis abound. When the Browns need a first down, is he ever around? Sure, he can get you 5 on the ground. But only when you need 6 for a first down. He can get you 6 in the air. Only to get up and complain, “It’s not fair!”

I am not an insider. I have no idea what’s going with the culture of the team. Maybe he did change the culture? If he did, it is hard to see from where I am standing. It seems excuses for reality Jarvis not living up to the Myth of Jarvis are everywhere.

Quarterback Baker Mayfield doesn’t throw him the ball. The coaches never have a play for him to call. When reality is there never was a cornerback on the field he could beat, in zone or with his feet.

But by all means, continue to believe in the Myth of Jarvis Landry. But reality will always fall short. And excuses will always be at the ready to retort. The Myth of Jarvis Landry brings hope to us all. But maybe if fans believe and olden days recall, then maybe. Just maybe, Jarvis will catch the damn ball!