Browns: 2015 Preseason Review Part 2: WRs, TEs, OL

Nov 6, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns tight end

(82) makes a catch while being defended by Cincinnati Bengals free safety

(20) during the third quarter at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Tight Ends

Since 1999, names like Steve Heiden, Kellen Winslow Jr., and Jordan Cameron are names that are synonymous with the success of the tight end position in Cleveland. However, as the 2015 season looms none of those names currently reside on the Cleveland Browns roster.

In their place are a few experienced veterans in Gary Barnidge, Jim Dray, and Rob Housler, along with rookies E.J Bibbs, Randall Telfer, and Anthony Ezeakunne. Hardly a group that strikes fear in opponents as offensive threats, but they are all solid, and they all have their positive potential.

Gary Barnidge

Perhaps the most familiar name amongst the group, Barnidge made his name with the Browns last season as the starter who filled in for Cameron. While Cameron was in and out of the lineup with various injuries, Barnidge stepped in as the starter and gave Hoyer a reliable option. His stats were far from spectacular, catching 13 passes for 156 yards in 13 starts, but his strengths lie in the running game.

In fact, it’s the reason Farmer brought Barnidge in for the 2014 season. Cameron was an offensive threat, but not the strongest run blocker. Barnidge will be a staple of the Browns offense in 2015, but don’t expect big offensive numbers. He will be consistent, he’ll help the running game, and he’ll do his job. Again the example of solid with the potential to do more for this team.

Jim Dray

Jul 30, 2015; Berea, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns tight end Jim Dray (81) runs after a catch during training camp at the Cleveland Browns practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

A name that sounds familiar, but one that many Browns fans might not be able to recall when asked who plays tight end for the Browns. However, Dray might be the best offensive weapon for the Browns. Last season he caught 17 passes for 242 yards or a 14.2 average. What does that mean? Dray is a potential big play TE type receiver who will give McCown some options when the coverage downfield takes away his receivers. He’s 6’5, and could prove to be an option in the Red Zone when the receivers on the field come up a bit short on height. Look for Dray to make some plays this season, and pair with Barnidge to form a solid starting group of TEs.

Aug 20, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns tight end Rob Housler (84) is tackled by Buffalo Bills outside linebacker

(53) during the second quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Rob Housler

The next Jordan Cameron? How about the guy who was supposed to be Jordan Cameron. Taken 33 picks before Cameron in the same draft, the Arizona Cardinals drafted Housler to be their future at tight end. However, where Jordan excelled, Housler didn’t find the same success. After totaling 105 receptions for 1,133 yards and one touchdown in four seasons, Housler’s disappointing 2014 season led Arizona to believe it was time to cut bait. He had 9 catches for 129 yards, far from a guy who might be best suited to replace Cameron in terms of offensive production.

So why do I think he could be the next Jordan Cameron? Well, he’s in the mold of Cameron. He’s 6’5, he’s athletic, and has a body type that’s very much in the mold of the former Browns TE. His stats don’t show much to date, but Housler is still young, still hungry to produce, and was a guy who had potential coming out of college.

Perhaps a fresh start in Cleveland will be the thing Housler needs to jump-start his career. Of all the tight ends, he’s my pick to potentially have the greatest impact on the offense. I’d look for Housler to play on 2nd and 3rd downs with big yardage to go. Take advantage of his ability to be a big play target downfield when running the ball wouldn’t be an option.

Next: TEs With Potential