Continuing a very preliminary look at how the Cleveland Browns roster might shake out come September, with a comparison to last season's numbers after the final cutdown out of preseason.
One caveat: Injuries and circumstance can change the situation in a hurry.
Fullback
Book ‘em: Nobody yet.
Left to ponder: Malcolm Johnson
Last season/this season: The Browns did not have a fullback on the roster after final cuts a year ago. This season they likely will have one.
Not keeping a fullback last season was a mistake the Browns eventually fixed by signing Ray Agnew. They never really solved the issue long-term though, as Agnew and Kiero Small bounced back and forth on the roster.
They will use a fullback this season, but not so much as a lead blocker.
“Last year, we were looking for a thumper,” running backs coach Wilbert Montgomery said. “This year we’re looking for more of an H-back type guy, a cross between a fullback and tight end who can move out of the backfield and still get lined up as a tight end as well as get lined up in the backfield. Not be that thumper, but cover up a guy.”
The Browns drafted Johnson in the sixth round to fill that role, but they also have a group of tight ends, any one of whom could line up as an H-back. The coaches liked what they saw of underrated rookie Emmanuel Bibbs, a tight end from Iowa State whose final season was hampered by meniscus surgery just prior to the season.
Johnson is the only player on the roster listed as a fullback. So the team could decide to go with Johnson or use a tight end as H-back.
On the 53: Johnson, but don’t be surprised if he’s on the practice squad and the team goes with Bibbs as the fourth tight end.
(Previously: Quarterback, running back).
