Cleveland Browns: 5 Bold predictions as training camp begins

Bold prediction No. 2: David Bell will win 3rd wide receiver competition

Some may not see this as a bold prediction, but David Bell is a rookie, drafted in the third round by the Browns out of Purdue. While he was a solid collegiate player and didn’t drop many passes in his time as a Boilermaker, he will still have to earn the chance to start in the NFL.

Former Browns receiver Jarvis Landry has moved on to the New Orleans Saints and that has left the slot wide receiver spot up for competition. They also traded for veteran Amari Cooper from the Dallas Cowboys, and he’ll be the Browns No. 1 target.

Donovan Peoples-Jones will be entering year three with Cleveland and had a strong second season which has him penciled in as the likely No. 2 wide receiver.

So, this means the slot position is up for grabs.

While second-year player Anthony Schwartz — who is known for his track-star speed — will likely sub in for Cooper or Peoples on the outside there are others competing for the inside role. Third year wide receiver Ja’Marcus Bradley has stuck around the team the last couple of seasons and is a potential candidate.

He’s been used on the practice team but has had a few games in the league, so he’ll get a good look again. The Browns also brought in some other rookies including Mike Harley Jr, Isaiah Watson, and Michael Woods II

Bell should still have the inside track at getting the start. There’s a hiccup in that prediction, as Bell was just announced as started on the physically unable to perform list because of a foot injury. This could be a precaution at the moment, and I eventually expect to see him at training camp competing.