The position group with the most questions heading into training camp for the Cleveland Browns is the wide receiver room. Jerry Jeudy had a fantastic season after getting traded to Cleveland last year, and if he gets just average quarterback play this year, he could have an even better season.
But after Jeudy, there are some concerns. Cedric Tillman looked like he was figuring it out once Jameis Winston took over, but it was only for a few games before he suffered a season-ending injury. Diontae Johnson had off-the-field issues last year, which led to him playing for three different teams. However, if his head is straight, he is still young and very capable.
Jamari Thrash. pic.twitter.com/GYFFscQrER
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) June 10, 2025
Following that, the group comprises multiple young players and former draft picks who are seeking to break out and prove themselves. The room is unproven, and that is concerning because the team needs someone to step up. One player who possesses the skillset to be a solid contributor stands out: last year's fifth-round pick out of Louisville, Jamari Thrash.
Thrash could be the answer the Browns have been trying to find for awhile someone who is at their best when playing in the slot. Tillman, Jeudy, and Johnson can succeed in the slot, but they are at their best on the outside. Thrash's skill set best translates to a slot player in the NFL, though he also found some success on the outside in college.
lots of improvement for Jamari Thrash pic.twitter.com/J8DJYvgsxW
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) June 12, 2025
Passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach Chad O'Shea praised Thrash during camp last week, discussing how hard he worked away from the facility to improve in the areas they had asked him to before OTAs even started. O'Shea said he's been very pleased with his work ethic and his performance on the field this spring.
Clevelanddotcom's Ashley Bastock has also named Thrash as one of the players who have been impressive in OTA practices that the media has been present for. He didn't receive many targets or chances last year after being drafted on day three, but he is putting in the work to improve in his second year. Let's discuss what he does best, using some film examples to illustrate why I believe he could be a surprise breakout player in 2025.