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

Travis Benjamin

In an offense that lacks true deep threat potential, the one WR who might help the Browns the most this season is Travis Benjamin. While he’s another receiver who measures under 6′, Benjamin’s ability to spread the field and get down the sideline might be his tallest attribute. Bowe, Hartline, and Hawkins are all viewed by many as “possession receivers” with some ability to make big plays. However, none of them are considered to have the consistent big play ability of Travis Benjamin.

That might be crazy to think about, considering Benjamin’s NFL career highs are 18 receptions and 314 yards. However, the story of Benjamin’s career might better be summarized by injury. His slender frame has suffered minor injury after minor injury, then a major injury to boot when he tore his ACL almost two years ago. If Benjamin can stay healthy in 2015, he stands to have a breakout season.

Kevin Jones of ClevelandBrowns.com took note of the work Benjamin has done this preseason, and with new faces in camp, Benjamin continues to focus and battle for his spot on the roster. He’s also shown an ability to be an explosive kick and punt returner. While he lost some focus last season and lost the job due to fumbles and mental errors, Benjamin still wants to return the football.

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If the Browns are going to have success on offense this season, they’re going to need a WR who can stretch the field. So it’s important that Benjamin and McCown can get on the same page. So far through two preseason games it seems that the two are finding ways to connect on the field. While Benjamin’s stats only say 3 receptions for 16 yards, McCown has found him on key plays on key drives. The stats don’t tell the whole story thus far.

What do we need to see from Benjamin going forward? I would like to see McCown find Benjamin deep downfield for a big play in Saturday night’s third preseason game. Not that it’s make or break, but just something that’s important to this Browns offense. Seeing McCown connect with Benjamin deep downfield in the dress rehearsal will help build McCown’s confidence in the speedy receiver, and give teams game tape on how this offense could burn defenses all year.

It’s a big season for Benjamin without a doubt. If he stays healthy, there’s a great chance he can solidify his spot on the Cleveland Browns roster. He’s potentially the biggest big play option. However, is there a chance he could leave the door open for one of the other receivers in camp to take his spot? Are there better options who could have more impact in 2015?

Next: A Familiar Player and A Rookie Making A Name For Himself