Factory Of Sadness
FanSided

Browns: Five Players Poised For A Breakout Season

By Ryan Rosko

Sep 21, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns helmet on the field before a game against the Baltimore Ravens at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 21, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns helmet on the field before a game against the Baltimore Ravens at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 6
Next
Browns
Dec 27, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Cleveland Browns running back Duke Johnson (29) carries the ball against the Kansas City Chiefs in the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Duke Johnson, Running Back

Why is Johnson, a second-year running back even on this list? Four words: Head coach Hue Jackson.

Johnson is the best back in the Browns backfield. Not only does he have the most potential of any running back, but his skill set allows him to do more than anyone else.

Just think about how the running backs in Jackson’s offense has performed. Having Jackson as the new HC is the best thing for Johnson.

At times in 2015, it was very difficult to watch Johnson run behind the Browns offensive line. Now with Alex Mack and Mitchell Schwartz elsewhere, it will be harder to have success.

That said, the creativity Jackson provides along with a solid line still in place, makes this situation easier to adjust too. Joe Thomas and Joel Bitonio will be back solidifying the left side of the offense line, and that’s a plus.

Still, it is hard to imagine the Browns being a run first team this season. Had Cleveland been able to retain either Mack or Schwartz, I would have been able to really believe that approach.

Regardless of how Johnson is used, Jackson will put Johnson in the best position to succeed. The Browns’ third-round pick last season only rushed for 379 yards on 104 attempts. His number of carries should increase and in turn, his stats will be much more respectable.

Even though last season was a bit of a disappointment, Cleveland is going to get their money worth out of Johnson when he catches passes. Do not be shocked to see him lined up in the slot as well as running wheel routes in a way to get the ball in his hands.

Johnson did much better as a pass catcher in 2015 with 61 receptions for 534 yards and eight touchdowns. If Johnson can improve running with the ball, while making the impact like he did in the passing game in 2016, then he is in a position to have a very big year.

Next: Does Not Matter If He Is A Tackle Or A Center

Home/Cleveland Browns