Cleveland Browns: 5 players whose stock rose after preseason opener

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - AUGUST 09: Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns calls out the play in the second quarter against the New York Giants during their preseason game on August 9,2018 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

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JACKSONVILLE, FL – JANUARY 07: Tyrod Taylor #5 of the Buffalo Bills runs away from Yannick Ngakoue #91 of the Jacksonville Jaguars in the first half of the AFC Wild Card Round game at EverBank Field on January 7, 2018 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images) /

Tyrod Taylor, QB

Tyrod Taylor did exactly what he was supposed to do.

Taylor was 5 of 5 for 99 yards, one touchdown, no interceptions and a 158.3 quarterback rating.

With a performance like that, there’s no chance of a quarterback controversy, and that’s exactly what the Browns needed.

Taylor’s the starter, as Hue Jackson‘s continuously stated and things are going to stay that way.

Just think how important it was for Taylor to come into the preseason and lead the Browns to a touchdown drive.

You’re starting quarterback should be able to do that. If not, well, you’re probably starting Brock Osweiler and embarking on what will likely turn out to be an 0-16 season.

OK, so how much can Taylor’s stock rise? After all, the job’s already his.

Keep in mind though, Taylor’s playing for a big contract this offseason when he becomes a free agent.

That means playing well and squashing any threat of a quarterback controversy. That means moving the chains, scoring, helping the Browns win and keeping Mayfield holding a clip board.

No, it doesn’t mean Super Bowl, but it should mean the Browns will be worth talking about come December, and when’s the last time that happened?

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