3 Browns players who need to step up with Gordon's return uncertain
Josh Gordon's long-awaited return to the field was again delayed Thursday when he announced his intentions to enter an in-patient rehab facility as a means of getting his life in order.
The Cleveland Browns wide receiver making the decision just a week away from being eligible to return to the field should be applauded. For a team that was certainly planning on having him back in the fold for the majority of the season, though, adjustments must be made.
Here's a look at three Browns players who will need to step up in Gordon's continued absence.
Terrelle Pryor
Relying on Pryor for a significant offensive role would have seemed like a dangerous proposition heading into the season. How much could a former quarterback do early in his transition to receiver? Those concerns can be put to rest. Not only has Pryor's athletic ability allowed him to make an immediate impact at his new position, but the Browns are now doing anything and everything they can to get the ball in his hands. Though Corey Coleman will have a significant role upon making his healthy return, don't be surprised if Pryor continues to serve as the No. 1 target. He's ready.
Duke Johnson
As the Browns look to compensate for the loss of what would have been a major early-season addition, getting more creative in the passing game seems like a logical strategy. That should begin with an effort to create opportunities for Duke Johnson as a receiver. The second-year running back appears well behind Isaiah Crowell in the competition for early-down carries, but his skill set can be put to use in a number of ways on third down. Whether lined up in the backfield or split out in the slot, Johnson's targets should only increase as the season moves forward.
Gary Barnidge
With a lack of depth behind Pryor and Coleman, who are both best suited to line up on the outside, the Browns will need someone to pose a threat over the middle of the field. We haven't forgotten about Gary Barnidge, have we? The 2015 breakout star has slowly seen his workload ramp up over the first three weeks of the season, and a clear rapport with Josh McCown will only help him continue on that path when the veteran signal-caller makes his return from injury. Barnidge reemerging as an elite red-zone target could go a long way toward making up for the boost Gordon would have provided in that regard.