The Cleveland Browns found a real one in KC Concepcion. The recent first-round pick was one of the NFL's most impressive rookies in Week 1 of the preseason, proving that all the training camp noise wasn't just a fluke.
Concepcion got things rolling with an electric 31-yard punt return. Then, he showcased his entire repertoire: acrobatic catches, movement before the snap, and even a big 14-yard rushing touchdown on a jet sweep.
That play was particularly impressive. He held his ground, took a big hit, and stayed in bounds to hit the pylon before finally being forced out.
When asked about that play, Concepcion dropped the mic with a stern warning to NFL cornerbacks:
“I take pride in never being tackled by a cornerback,” the talented rookie said.
KC Concepcion's toughness could make him the engine of Todd Monken's offense
Standing at 5-foot-11 and 196 pounds, Concepcion is by no means the biggest wide receiver out there. In fact, his size may have been a knock on him coming out of college.
Make no mistake, this young man is tough as nails, and he proved it as a former running back at NC State before his transfer to Texas A&M. Concepcion turned 60 carries into 365 rushing yards and two scores in his two years with the Wolfpack, and he won't back down from a big hit to get additional yards.
A lot has been said of fellow rookie Denzel Boston, and rightfully so. He's a big-bodied chain-mover who will help keep this team ahead of the sticks as a prototypical "X" receiver. However, Concepcion is the more dynamic of the two, and his versatility will help unlock so many things for Todd Monken's offense.
Fans shouldn't get too carried away with one preseason game, but Concepcion's outstanding performance might have been a preview of what's to come. Once the team settles its underwhelming quarterback situation and the offensive line gets in sync, the 21-year-old Concepcion has a real chance to be the engine of Monken's offense this year.
Concepcion has a chip on his shoulder the size of Ohio. He was doubted and overlooked for way too long. His drop issues in college and skinnier frame were often the talking points for a promising young receiver who should only be known for his explosiveness, big-play potential, and dynamic skill set.
Cornerbacks, you've been warned. If you come at Concepcion, you'd better not miss.
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