Overlooked No More: Browns undrafted free agents shine against Eagles in preseason
It was known that the third preseason game for the Cleveland Browns would be about the young guys, though the outcome may have been better than expected. Multiple players on the bubble of the roster stepped up and helped their case for making the 53-man roster. In the end, the Browns and Eagles tied at […]
It was known that the third preseason game for the Cleveland Browns would be about the young guys, though the outcome may have been better than expected.
Multiple players on the bubble of the roster stepped up and helped their case for making the 53-man roster.
In the end, the Browns and Eagles tied at 18, as the preseason does not take part in overtime.
Nonetheless, plenty of good stuff was on display as the Browns will have some tough decisions to make when roster cuts need to happen at the end of the month.
Again in this one, Austin Watkins Jr. is the story. The undrafted free agent out of UAB has proven he belongs this preseason and has led the Browns in receiving each of the three preseason games. In this one, Watkins exploded for seven catches, 137 receiving yards, and a touchdown.
Watkins is going to make it very hard for the Browns to cut him. When it comes to doing everything you need to, Watkins has done just that.
Linebacker Mohamoud Diabate had himself a game to remember. Diabate had six tackles, a forced fumble, and a tackle for a loss. Another undrafted free agent has a show to make the Browns’ roster. All of the tools are there, but Diabate is still learning the position and sometimes diagnoses things at a stagnant level.
On the tackle for a loss, Diabate got through the line and stuffed the running back for a safety.
Another undrafted rookie stepped up because of course they did. Ronnie Hickman recorded his third interception in the last two games. Unfortunately, Hickman exited with a head injury but he had already made an impact.
The success for the undrafted players continued with defensive end Lonnie Phelps recording his first sack. Phelps is an intriguing edge rusher out Kansas of that had seven sacks his senior season. At this time, Phelps may be a player that could be on the practice squad.
Browns lose breakout preseason star against Eagles to unfortunate injury
This is unfortunate considering how his preseason has gone.
Featured image via Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports.
