Browns head coach Hue Jackson announced this week that rookie wide receiver Antonio Callaway will start opposite Jarvis Landry this Sunday. Josh Gordon will operate as Cleveland’s third wideout.
Rookie Wide Receiver Antonio Callaway to Start on Sunday for Cleveland Browns
The Browns have an entirely revamped receiving corps, and the room dealt with its fair share of off-season drama. It started when Gordon chose not to report to training camp in late July. He cited his “health and treatment plan” as the reason for opting not to report. He finally reported August 18, and just recently resumed practicing with the team.
Callaway himself endured off-season struggles. Police stopped him August 7 and issued him a citation for driving with a suspended license and marijuana possession. Callaway has a history with marijuana as he tested positive for the drug at the NFL Combine in April. However, Cleveland has stuck with their youngster, supporting his claim that a friend left the marijuana in his car. He is eligible to play while the NFL and law enforcement investigate the situation.
Callaway showed flashes of excitement in the preseason and will look to build a rapport with quarterback Tyrod Taylor starting week one. He will start, but look for Gordon to receive more snaps and most likely start by week two.
Even with the start, Callaway doesn’t figure to be higher than fourth in Cleveland’s target share. Landry has already developed a strong connection with Taylor, and they’ll also have to get Gordon involved somehow.
There’s also Duke Johnson, who remains a dynamic receiving option out of the backfield. With the addition of Carlos Hyde and rookie Nick Chubb in the offseason, the Browns will have to get Johnson more looks in the passing game to keep him involved.
Callaway remains an intriguing prospect, and the starting nod is a good sign. However, it wouldn’t come as a surprise if he started the season and his career a bit slow.
