Browns: 5 players who need big seasons in 2021

Austin Hooper

Austin Hooper was a two-time Pro Bowler before coming to Cleveland. A shift in schemes from the Falcons to the Browns, two other tight ends who took up significant amounts of time, injuries, and heightened expectations due to his contract have many wondering if Hooper has what it takes to be the guy in the Browns passing game offense.

The guy at tight end, that is.

For Hooper to stand out, he has got to start making some plays. Part of the issue came up with scheme-fits in 2021, no doubt about it. He’s not an overly fast player and he was playing alongside receivers wh were slower or as slow as he was. That’s not exactly a deal-breaker but if you don’t have anyone who can command on a double-team, and the Browns didn’t in 2021, then you’re going to have a rough time getting guys open.

Hooper isn’t exactly on the chopping block in Cleveland and the Browns and fans still have high hopes for him. Like Jedrick Wills, there isn’t a fear that he’s going to be bad, but will he be good enough to warrant his spot as a top guy on the team, and as a guy who has a huge contract.

Season two is going to be a big one for Hooper.