Grading the Browns key players half-way through the season
By Chad Porto
The Cleveland Browns are officially off their bye-week but how are the players and teams doing so far? Let’s find out by grading the team!
To be clear, this is what’s about to happen with these grades for the Browns. The offense, defense, and overall team are going to be graded. The primary players at key positions will be graded as well. Not every player will be, because not every player has warranted enough time on the field to warrant an evaluation. After the players are graded, the coaches will be graded, followed by an entire team grade to close things out.
With that, let’s start this thing off right.
Offense
Overall Unit: B+
The offense has done an impressive job so far in 2020. They’re one of the top-scoring offenses in the league and hopefully, that’ll continue through the rest of the year.
QB Baker Mayfield: B-
Baker Mayfield is getting bounced around by the media something fierce. A lot of it is unwarranted, and Mayfield continues to prove that, being the primary force behind the 5-3 record.
RB Nick Chubb: C
Injuries matter when evaluating talent. If you’re not playing, you’re not helping. If you’re not helping, you’re hurting. Chubb (assuming he stays healthy) should bounce back in the second half.
RB Kareem Hunt: C+
It’s hard to not be disappointed by Kareem Hunt. He’s been dealing with some nagging injuries, sure but he’s also not making big plays. He’s been fine, but that’s it.
FB Andy Janovich: B-
He’s doing everything he’s supposed to do. He just hasn’t made many big plays yet, but that’s due more to lack of opportunity.
WR Jarvis Landry: C+
The injuries have affected him, clearly and he’s not the same player he was in years past. Will he be able to bounce back? That’s anyone’s guess.
WR Odell Beckahm Jr.: C-
Yes, he had a few big plays but largely he’s been a disappointment over two years, and he’s now again hurt. Another injury-plagued year for Odell Beckham has come to pass.
WR Rashard Higgins: D-
He was supposed to be the third receiver but that’s not how it shook out. He’s had one nice game but that’s it. Needs to do more to get a better score.
WR KhaDarel Hodge: F
He has 144 yards in his career and 59 this season. What did you expect him to get?
TE Austin Hooper: C+
If you’ve been disappointed with Austin Hooper’s 2020 campaign, you’re not alone. His blocking is pretty impressive though.
TE Harrison Bryant: B+
Hasn’t had many opportunities but has made the most of the ones given to him. Could be a star.
TE David Njoku: D+
There’s a reason why the Browns signed and drafted tight ends in the offseason. A malcontent who keeps requesting trades due to a lack of playing time, but can’t make plays when called upon.
OT Jedrick Wills Jr.: C-
A forgettable eight-game stretch for Jedrick Wills, but should improve with time (hopefully). Needs to work on his quickness if he’s ever going to be a Pro Bowler.
OG Joel Bitonio: C+
Has had a few bad games. Either it’s due to declining play or covering up for Wills.
IL J.C. Tretter: A-
Not one bad thing to say here.
OG Wyatt Teller: B
If he played the entire season to this point, at the level he had been playing at prior to his injury, he’d have a better grade.
OG Chris Hubbard: C+
Commendable performance by the sixth-man off the bench.
OT Jack Conklin: B+
Haven’t had his name called much, and for an offensive lineman that’s a good thing.