The Cleveland Browns had one of the worst receiver groups last year. Yeah, to the tune of being ranked #32. Out of 32 teams. Needless to say, that’s dead last.
Jerry Jeudy had an off year and gained half of what he did the previous season, when he went to his first Pro Bowl. Ced Tillman has never done much since becoming a third-round draft pick. Isaiah Bond came to the franchise like the Browns had uncovered a hidden gem that would blow the doors off any defense. 18 receptions for 338 yards aren’t
exactly keeping defensive coordinators up at night.
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Jamari Thrash was released and then re-signed. Malachi Corley had his moments. So did Gage Larvadain.
The offensive line didn’t help and had issues of its own. But the running game was atrocious once starting RB Quinshon Judkins ended up on IR.
GM Andrew Berry signed Tylan Wallace, who is technically a receiver, but inked him for his return capabilities. And that’s the extent of bringing in a capable body for the receiver room.
Berry may not be done. The NFL draft could bring in another capable receiver for quality depth. Here are several prospects that are all small-college guys.
Shelton Sampson, Jr. – Louisiana
Draft projection: Round 7
Cardinals pick: #248
Was a four-star prospect coming out of high school who broke numerous school receiving records. He first went to LSU. Large frame that is more than just a big target – he’s got some wheels. He ran a hand-timed 4.35 and 4.39 in the 40-yard dash.
Specifics:
Career receptions: 32
Career yards: 2,409
Career average yards per catch: 16.8
Career touchdowns: 6
Career games: 21
Accolades: Two-time high school state champion, Under Armour All-American Game invitee
Devin Voisin – South Alabama
Draft projection: Round 5
Cardinals pick: #149
Very solid receiver who is one of the best route runners. He understands leverage with good timing on breaks. His footwork is crisp and efficient. Soft hands but very physical.
Specifics:
College: South Alabama
Height: 6’-0”
Weight: 190 pounds
40-time: 4.5
Career receptions: 172
Career yards: 2,133
Career average yards per catch: 12.4
Career touchdowns: 10
Career points: 62
Accolades: Second Team All-Sun Belt Conference, Senior Bowl invitee
Jalen Walthall – Incarnate Word
Draft projection: Round 7
Cardinals pick: #248
Workhouse back with 408 attempts in just three seasons with legit second-gear acceleration. Good blocker with versatility to catch passes and was ultra-productive at the college level.
Specifics:
College: Incarnate Word
Height: 6’-1”
Weight: 200 pounds
40-time: 4.5
Career receptions: 208
Career receiving yards: 1,748
Career average yards per catch: 12.4
Career touchdowns: 16
Career points: 180
Accolades: SLC Offensive Player of the Year, AFCA All-American, Payton Award finalist
Michael Wortham – Montana
Draft projection: Round 7
Cardinals pick: #248
Very fast with great hands. Dangerous with the ball in his hands. Good YAC. Will be a great special teams player. Outstanding body control and a dual-threat athlete, can play quarterback. Great blocker with good vision and a compact, tough frame. Needs to beef up.
Specifics:
College: Montana
Height: 5’-8”
Weight: 181 pounds
40-time: 4.48
Career receptions: 269
Career yards: 2,265
Career average yards per catch: 6.8
Career touchdowns: 10
Accolades: Payton Award finalist, East-West Shrine Bowl invitee
