Ranking and grading each Browns player from the 2020 NFL Draft

1. WR Donovan Peoples-Jones – No.11

• Drafted: Round 6, Pick 187
• 2020 PFF: 71.8
• 2020 Stats: 12 games, two started, 14 receptions, 304 yards, two touchdowns
• 2021 PFF: 65.7
• 2021 Stats: 14 games, nine started, 34 receptions, 597 yards, three touchdowns
• Grade: B-
• Career Stats: 26 games, 11 started, 78 receptions, 901 yards, five touchdowns

Donovan Peoples-Jones is arguably the best player from the 2020 NFL Draft. You could make a case for Jedrick Wills or Harrison Bryant as well if you’re inclined to.  All three men have their arguments for and against. Whether or not that’s a strong sign for the class as a whole, that a fourth and sixth-rounder are on par with a Top 10 pick is surely not something to be excited about, but that’s where we are.

The case for Peoples-Jones to be the best player from this draft class comes down to two key points; his production versus his draft position and his potential play-making ability. Most teams who have a receiver as their classes’ best player usually have them around the 700-900 yard range, but Peoples-Jones just got to that mark in his second season. So comparing him to a Justin Jefferson or a Ja’Marr Chase would be foolish.

Yet, unlike both of those men, Peoples-Jones was a project pick in the sixth round. Jefferson and Chase were first-round picks. So it’s not a fair comparison. So keeping in mind that Peoples-Jones was as late as he is, it’s fair to say he’s exceeding expectations for his draft place.

Peoples-Jones has also shown to be able to go over the top on defenses, which is going to be a huge point in his favor. The problem is his catching isn’t nearly where it needs to be yet. He’s a fine receiver in that regard but he’s nowhere near elite and will likely never be.

If he can develop into a deep threat for the Browns, then he may very well be the best player this class has.