Cleveland Browns 2016 NFL Mock Draft 2.0
By Ryan Rosko
Round 5. Underrated Offensive Talent
53. . Running Back. New Mexico. Jhurell Pressley. 173. player
It does matter who the quarterback is for the Cleveland Browns if there is not a strong running game. Currently, Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson are the players who will be getting most of the work.
Johnson can do a lot of things in this offense but I am not as confident with Crowell moving forward. I will put it this way — the Crowell/Johnson duo is decent, but looking long-term, Crowell could and should be replaced. Former New Mexico running back Jhurell Pressley can come in and compete with Crowell for carries.
Had Pressley been used more, he would have had more chances to showcase his skills. As a result, Pressley ultimately could have had a much higher projection going into the draft. For his career, Pressley had 394 carries for 2,725 yards, and 35 touchdowns. In 2015, Pressley had 907 yards on 147 carries and 11 touchdowns.
Pressley is an under the radar player, who also may be the biggest sleeper at his position. He would push Crowell for playing time and would be a great benefit to the Cleveland Browns offense.
Having played in a system where multiple backs were used, the wear and tear on Pressley is a lot less than other running backs. Although that system was not ideal showcasing what he could do with more touches, it benefits Pressley in the long-run in the NFL. Besides, what Pressley did do when he was on the field did not go unnoticed. Cleveland will be able to do a lot with him.
Pressley is a bit smaller than Jacksonville Jaguars running back T.J. Yeldon. Both players have a good mix of power and speed, with the latter being more evident. If Pressley is this year’s Yeldon, then we are not going to be disappointed.
Next: Round 7. An Option To Get After The Quarterback