Browns: 2015 Preseason Review Part 2: WRs, TEs, OL
May 26, 2015; Berea, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Brian Hartline (83) during organized team activities at the Cleveland Browns training facility. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Brian Hartline
Now I know what you might be thinking. This next page is about former Ohio State Buckeyes QB turned receiver Terrell Pryor. While we will get to him later, this review is actually about another alumnus from The Ohio State, former Buckeyes star WR Brian Hartline. Hartline was on one of OSU’s best play-makers at WR. He wasn’t flashy with huge stats, but as a slot receiver and occasional deep threat, Hartline was an integral part of the team that went to the 2008 National Championship Game.
As a pro, Hartline is coming off playing six seasons with the Miami Dolphins, the team that drafted him in 2009. He was released earlier this offseason and quickly became a target on Farmer’s free-agent radar. As a former two-time 1,000 yard WR, Hartline has the speed and skill to be a weapon on offense. Upon signing with the team the Canton, Ohio native expressed how excited he was to be back with his hometown Cleveland Browns.
Fellow off-season signee QB Josh McCown is also among those who loves having a player like Hartline on the team. Hartline called McCown a “pro’s pro” and believes in him . With Bowe’s injury in camp, McCown has found confidence with Hartline. The two are starting to develop chemistry with each other on and off-the-field. Has that chemistry translated to results the first two preseason games? How was Hartline fared?
So far so good! The chemistry between McCown and Hartline has translated to game day. Through two preseason games against the Redskins and Bills, Hartline has caught 5 receptions for 48 yards. That’s almost 10 yards per reception, which means that McCown is hitting Hartline in spots where he is able to make plays. Whether that’s down the field, across the middle, or up the sideline it’s evident that McCown’s looking for Hartline. As Dwayne Bowe prepares to return for the third preseason game it will be interesting to see if McCown still seeks out Hartline in key 3rd down or big yardage situations.
That said, what does Hartline need to do going forward and what does he need to show in preseason game number three? Honestly I don’t think there is a whole lot more that Hartline needs to show to Browns fans, his teammates, or the front office. He was brought in to be the second receiver on this team, and thus far he has shown the ability to do that. McCown has faith in him, and Hartline has returned faith in McCown. The two will look to help each other, and help move the chains.
If Hartline can continue to average close to 10 yards per reception, he’ll find his way to another 1,000 yard season. For Cleveland Browns fans, that kind of potential offensive production is all we ask. Pat McManamon of ESPN.com highlights Hartline as his best player in camp, and I agree. Browns fans should look to Hartline translating his success in camp to putting points on the board this season.
Who else will help Hartline and Bowe? How about a play-maker and familiar face we might remember from last season?
Next: He May Be Small, But He Just Makes Plays