Player movement often can open the door for an opportunity for another player. That very well could be the situation in Cleveland.
The Browns opted to trade their 2020 sixth-round pick Donovan Pe ples-Jones to the Detroit Lions for a sixth-round pick two drafts from now in 2025.
It was a deal that has opened the door for a younger player to potentially grow into a larger role. Cedric Tillman was the team’s third-round pick in April and now there are snaps he can take advantage of.
Through seven games, Tillman has just one catch with 45 snaps on offense. He’s not really been used when the Browns have wanted to pass the ball yet. With Peoples-Jones out, there is a spot for someone to step up behind Amari Cooper and Elijah Moore.
It’s time for the Browns to see what they have with their first selection in the most recent draft. Tillman was impressive in training camp and will now have an increased role.
Cleveland needs an outside receiver to take over for DPJ, it’s best fit to be their 6-foot-3 rookie who can go up and make plays. Tillman was a 1,000-yard receiver kind of player in college before the Browns made him the No. 74 overall pick.
Tillman won’t need to come out and put up big numbers. He’s not going to with the quarterback play the Browns are currently getting, it’s unfair to expect. But he should see an increased opportunity to add to just a single catch he has this season.
The Browns are going to soon find out what the former Vols standout can bring to the offense. DPJ had just 97 yards so far this season, so Tillman has a chance to produce more for the Browns at the position.
Look for the snap increase to start as soon as Week 9 against the Arizona Cardinals. It’ll be a watching point for sure.
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