The Browns haven't done much winning in recent years, but heading into the 2013 season, it isn't all bad. The new decision-makers clearly have reservations about Brandon Weeden, but they seem to either like or at least have great expectations for their top two receivers.
Terry Pluto of the Cleveland Plain Dealer talks Browns in his latest column, with some interesting tidbits. Among them:
- The coaches are very impressed with Greg Little. Reviewing the tape, they saw 11 catches and 6 drops in his first five games; 42 catches and 3 drops in his final 11 games. They're expecting big things from him in 2013.
- Josh Gordon, in the team's eyes, could/should have been even better. Gordon had a pretty impressive season for a rookie wideout who hadn't played football the previous season, but Cleveland wants more. Early on, the team thought he could have worked harder, perhaps relying too much on his natural talent. They were impressed by the way he came around during the year, but in speaking of him recently, CEO Joe Banner stresses Gordon has plenty of room for improvement to be an impact player. Sounds like the team feels the need to keep on him.
- Alex Smith wasn't an option for Cleveland at his price tag (second-round pick from Kansas City). The Browns don't have a second-rounder, but it's also not clear they'd have dealt it if they did.
- Colt McCoy probably won't be back at his salary. Brandon Weeden will have competition, but it's unlikely to be McCoy.
Not mentioned in the article, but somebody for fantasy coaches to keep an eye on, is third-year tight end Jordan Cameron. Cleveland is expected to let Benjamin Watson go, making Cameron an intriguing candidate for a breakout season.
--Andy Richardson