When the Cleveland Browns reported to Berea for training camp, there was one noticeable absence. Veteran wide receiver Amari Cooper was a no-show as he seeks a new contract. They also were without Jerry Jeudy at one point as he was working with trainers due to a minor injury.
That opened the door for second-year wideout Cedric Tillman to take more snaps with Deshaun Watson and the starters — and he didn't disappoint.
Tillman, a third-round pick from Tennessee, showed up to camp ready to make a leap. Lace Reisland of Cleveland.com quickly pointed out the difference in his build as well as the speed he showed. Reisland shared a video of Tillman using his size to catch a high pass and said this could be a breakout season for him.
Cedric Tillman looks to be in great physical shape. Long and fast. Could be a breakout season for him. Here he is working on high pointing the football in the redzone. #Browns pic.twitter.com/vRutkNE1Ru
— Lance Reisland (Coach Riz) (@LanceReisland) June 5, 2024
Browns WR Cedric Tillman cleaning up his route tree
The focus for Tillman has been figuring out how to use his size in the red zone. The 6-foot-3, 215-pounder gained 224 yards on 21 receptions but finished without a touchdown. He's hoping to change that while also refining his technique as a route runner.
Another clip shared by Reisland shows Tillman running a precise route against Martin Emerson, who is an excellent corner in man coverage.
Cedric Tillman runs a really good hitch route against Martin Emerson. QB delivers the football perfectly to the outside, allowing Tillman to “pro turn” to the sideline. #Browns pic.twitter.com/4DucgmcLoE
— Lance Reisland (Coach Riz) (@LanceReisland) June 11, 2024
The knock on Tillman coming into the league was the lack of routes he handled while at Tennessee. Cleveland brought him along slowly as a rookie and while he impressed often, he also had some moments to forget.
One example was in their Week 15 win over the Chicago Bears when Tillman took a route upfield while Joe Flacco expected him to run a cross between the linebacker and safety. The miscommunication led to a pick from Eddie Jackson.
Growing pains are the norm for young players but Tillman has entered year two ready for a fresh start and potential breakout campaign.