The Browns' wide receiver room was the center of attention on Tuesday. Hidden behind the news that Jerry Jeudy signed a contract extension was Cleveland and James Proche agreeing on a one-year deal.
The shifty wide receiver and return man first came to Cleveland in the second half of the season last year and was first activated to the roster in early November.
In his ten games with the Browns in 2023, Proche returned 22 punts for 197 yards. As a wide receiver, his time on the field was limited, only seeing five targets with no receptions.
Prior to coming to Cleveland, Proche spent three years as a member of the Baltimore Ravens.
The Browns have never been able to have the same type of return success that they had when Josh Cribbs handled punt and kick return duties between 2006 through 2012.
It is difficult to emulate the success of one of the best return men in NFL history, but even a slight uptick in production could significantly change field position, making life easier for Deshaun Watson and the offense.
In the seven games prior to the addition of Proche in 2023, Donovan Peoples-Jones handled the punt return duties before being traded to the Detroit Lions. On his 13 returns, he picked up 84 total yards and his long was only 13 yards.
Even though Proche will likely be securely behind Amari Cooper, Jerry Jeudy, Elijah Moore, David Bell and Cedric Tillman on the wide receiver depth chart, he will get his chance in the return game.
Improving the Cleveland Special Teams group has been a top priority this offseason. Not only did the Browns bring Proche back into the mix but they also signed veteran running back and returner Nyheim Hines.
Expect these two to compete for the return responsibilities in 2024.
Another offseason that the Browns have strategically created created a very well-rounded roster.
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