3 Browns who have been pleasant surprises through 8 weeks
By Jacob Roach
No. 2: Donovan Peoples-Jones, Wide Receiver
The talk all offseason was how the Browns didn’t have enough talent at wide receiver after Amari Cooper at the top of the room. Plenty worried about should Cooper get hurt or have a bad game if there was anyone that could step up. Donovan Peoples-Jones has stepped up to the plate and is cementing himself as the number two in Cleveland, for what could be a while.
Peoples-Jones might not create a ton of separation with blazing speed but he understands how to provide a reliable target and make a play on the ball.
He has shown the ability to be a vertical threat and track the ball well in the air adjusting to it to make the play. It doesn’t matter if there is tight coverage either as he again is one of the best in contested catch opportunities.
Donovan Peoples-Jones has been nothing but consistent and dependable for the Browns this season. There are still obvious limitations to his game, but he has taken another leap this year. He just shows up in moments when a big play is needed.
— Cory (@realcorykinnan) October 29, 2022
On pace for 63 catches and 816 yards. pic.twitter.com/MQG183vr5v
With Amari Cooper drawing a lot of attention, understandably so, it has truly allowed Peoples-Jones to continue to improve and given him loads of opportunities. With Watson returning to the field in a few weeks DPJ could see even more opportunities to thrive soon.
With his combination of size and athleticism, he can often create mismatch nightmares for defenses and it will only keep happening as the quarterback play improves.