Cleveland Browns: 5 AAF players who should be invited to Training Camp

Cleveland Browns Marcus Baugh
Cleveland Browns Marcus Baugh /
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Cleveland Browns Marcus Baugh /

2. Marcus Baugh, TE, San Diego Fleet

Former Ohio State Buckeye Marcus Baugh finished his Ohio State career on a strong note, catching 52 balls for 573 yards and two scores in his final two seasons in Columbus.

He entered the NFL draft, but wasn’t selected, signing with the Oakland Raiders before eventually be waived and landing with San Diego of the AAF.

So far, he has nine catches on 16 targets for 131 yards and a touchdown. He grades out as PFF’s sixth ranked tight end, behind a familiar face, Bug Howard. Howard had a cup of coffee with the Browns before embarking on his journey to the AAF.

So, why Baugh? I like to think of players like him as “Slow Brewed.” This isn’t a bad thing. It’s how I like my coffee. And as I’ve already noted, Baught came on strong for Urban Meyers’ Buckeyes following a slow start that started with disciplinary issues getting things going on the wrong foot during his 2013 redshirt season season.

While his hands are a concern, he graded out very well when asked to hang around the line to pass block. His run blocking has been average (59.2 grade), so there’s room for improvement there.

David Njoku looks poised for a big receiving year as he enters this third year, but the Browns do need some depth at tight end. Seth DeValve should get another chance, but injuries really derailed his 2018 season.

Following the release of Darren Fells, the Browns added former Chief Demetrius Harris via free agency. The 27-year-old had 12 receptions for 164 yards and three touchdowns in 12 games. His value will come blocking.

As is this case with all of the guys on this list, why not invite Baugh to Training Camp. He really hasn’t gotten a shot in the NFL and at 6-foot-5, 250 pounds, it’d be harmless to at least bring him and see what he can do.