Browns: 2015 Preseason Review Part 2: WRs, TEs, OL
Aug 13, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Taylor Gabriel (18) in a preseason NFL football game at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Taylor Gabriel
A familiar face in a familiar place, but one who might get lost among the sea of new faces is Taylor Gabriel. Last season the 5’8 undrafted rookie from Abilene Christian took the league by surprise, helping the Browns contend for the playoffs throughout most of the 2014 season. His 36 receptions and 621 yards were second to Hawkins on the team, and his 17.3 yards per reception led the team. He is the kind of receiver that has both big play potential for the Browns and yet is reliable in short yardage 3rd down situations. So why do I think Gabriel might get lost in the WR field?
It’s simply the additions of veterans Bowe and Hartline moving him further down the depth chart. He may find himself to be the odd man out. Gabriel still has the potential to produce for the Browns, and he will make the final roster. It’s just how many opportunities will he get?
Bowe, Hartline, and Hawkins will undoubtedly be the starters, while Benjamin may get the first crack at being the deep threat to spread the field in some offensive sets. Gabriel may get some extra run in the third preseason game, so it’ll be important for him to seize his opportunities to remind Pettine and DeFilippo of what he brings to the team.
May 26, 2015; Berea, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Darius Jennings (10) during organized team activities at the Cleveland Browns training facility. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Darius Jennings
An undrafted rookie out of Virginia, Darius Jennings has made a name for himself through two preseason games. His play in the latter part of both games (4 rec, 68 yards) has opened a few eyes on the coaching staff. His 37-yard reception from Johnny Manziel in the second preseason game against Buffalo might be the biggest highlight play of the preseason thus far. His work in camp has earned the praise of not only fellow players like Hartline, but also Coach Mike Pettine.
Jennings has a goal to go from tryout player to being on the 53-man roster. In order for that to happen, he’s willing to be a part of special teams as well. That might be his key to making the roster out of camp.
While later in the third preseason game could be a showcase for him, it’s highly unlikely that Jennings could do anything to ruffle the feathers of the current WR depth chart. His play in camp has definitely made Jennings worthy of a spot on the 53-man roster, the only question is does Farmer make it happen?
Next: A QB Turned WR