The Cleveland Browns might not feel great about their decision to move on from David Njoku. They've made a flurry of moves at tight end since, and with some injuries popping up in camp, the position could continue to be in flux over the first month-plus of the regular season.
Harold Fannin Jr. is expected to feast in his second year with the team, even with more playmakers by his side. Other than that, only veteran Blake Whiteheart looks like a lock to make the roster.
With Joe Royer missing training camp with an undisclosed personal matter and Dae'Quan Wright returning to college, seventh-round rookie Carsen Ryan might find himself filling a larger role than expected in Todd Monken's offense.
The Browns' thin tight end room has created an unexpected opportunity for Carsen Ryan
A seventh-round pick out of BYU, Ryan has emerged from the roster bubble to a regular name in training camp highlights. He's made some acrobatic catches, and he was known for his prowess as a yards-after-catch specialist in college.
Monken has used him all over the formation. He's lined up inline at tight end, outside in the slot, and even in the backfield as a fullback. That last trait might be what sets him apart from the rest of the pack, with only so many roster spots up for grabs.
Another plus in Ryan's game is his hands. He only dropped two passes in his final season in college and four throughout his collegiate career. The Browns' passing game might not be proficient, so that's certainly a plus.
With the Browns likely relying heavily on check-downs, having a safety valve who can create in limited space will be paramount. Ryan averaged 13.5 yards per reception last season, 6.9 of which came after the catch. He may not necessarily be a speedster or overly explosive, but he has great vision and patience.
Despite not having solid quarterback play, Ryan still hauled in 46 catches for 620 yards and three scores for the Cougars. He also proved to be reliable when the team needed to stay ahead of the sticks, with 31 of his catches going for either a first down or a score.
The Browns already have a star, playmaking tight end in Fannin, and Whiteheart might be there mostly for blocking purposes. Ryan's versatility as a potential H-back, with the willingness to be physical as a blocker, should grant him a roster spot in what is a depleted group.
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