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Cleveland Browns notably host the son of an NFL legend for a workout at a position they’re hurting at
Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

The Cleveland Browns are trying to stack wins for the first time since 2023 when they take on the New England Patriots on the road tomorrow. Cleveland blew out the Miami Dolphins in Week 7 and will travel to New England before heading into their bye week.

Cleveland sits at 2-5 largely due to its struggles on the offensive side of the football. The Browns have an elite defense, and that was on full display in their 31-6 win over Miami, when they forced four turnovers. However, issues remain on offense—particularly along the offensive line and at wide receiver. Pair those concerns with a rookie third-round quarterback in Dillon Gabriel, and it’s easy to see why the Browns have had trouble finding consistency.

Browns bring in son of 49ers great Jerry Rice for a visit

The Browns haven’t been shy about hosting wide receivers for workouts in recent weeks, and one of the latest visitors is former USC standout Brenden Rice, the son of NFL all-time leading receiver Jerry Rice. Cleveland also brought in former Rutgers wideout Dymere Miller and former Duke receiver Eli Pancol for visits. The Browns are reportedly looking to add a receiver to their practice squad, with the potential for an in-season elevation—similar to how they handled Malachi Corley.

Cleveland’s top wideout Jerry Jeudy has struggled this season, recording just 257 receiving yards and one touchdown through seven games. Rookie tight end Harold Fannin Jr. currently leads the team with 290 receiving yards, while veteran David Njoku is third with 223. No other Browns tight end or wide receiver has surpassed 200 yards. Undrafted rookie Isaiah Bond has 123 receiving yards on 11 catches but saw his snaps reduced last week in favor of Corley. Cedric Tillman was expected to emerge as the Browns’ No. 2 wide receiver, but injuries have limited him to just four games this season. He isn’t expected to return until after the bye week. Second-year wideout Jamari Thrash has also seen limited production, with eight catches for 76 yards.

Rice was originally selected in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Chargers. The second-year wideout appeared in three games as a rookie. After transferring from Colorado to USC in 2023, Rice broke out with 611 receiving yards and two touchdowns. As a senior, he took another step forward, posting 791 yards and 12 scores. Cleveland hasn’t signed him yet, but that could change in the coming days.


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This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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