I have already familiarized myself with wide receivers for the upcoming college season to keep an eye on for next year's draft. I want the Browns to keep adding offensive weapons. However, I am also encouraged by what I'm seeing from the group the Browns have assembled. It's been pilloried by especially national critics.
Outside of Jerry Jeudy, who was great last year and looks poised to be again, nothing the Browns have is proven. It's entirely fair for anyone to point that out and rank the group to reflect that reality. It's increasingly understandable why the Browns feel they will be okay there. Cedric Tillman has demonstrated legitimate ability. He had a great three-game stretch before a season-ending injury. It's only three games. He needs to prove it over a longer period of time. So long as he remains healthy, it wouldn't be a surprise to anyone if he has a good year, especially with Jeudy and David Njoku headlining.
There has been a buzz about last year's fifth-round pick, Jamari Thrash. He received some praise in his rookie season, but was a mess when he got opportunities to prove it on the field. Thrash couldn't line up correctly at points. This year, the former Louisville pass catcher has been steadily progressing and has looked the part in the preseason. He looks confident, is able to get open and makes a smooth transition from catch to run. He looks like he can be a good third or fourth receiver for this team.
The emergence of Thrash might allow Diontae Johnson to become a bonus. Given his recent history of being unreliable, that's the right role for him. Being in a position where they are forced to rely on him is hardly ideal. If Thrash proves he's reliable, Johnson could be a spark plug for the offense. In the event he has a similar fate as he's had with his last few teams, it's not nearly as disastrous for the Browns.