In 2010, the Cleveland Browns were briefly a dangerous team, upsetting the Saints and Patriots in consecutive weeks and taking the Jets into overtime. That was at the height of Peyton Hillis’ success in Cleveland, as he averaged over 130 total yards per game during that stretch.
The 2012 Browns offense should look similar to the 2010 version, with Trent Richardson playing the starring role.
Like Hillis, Richardson is a powerful downhill runner and can also contribute as a receiver out of the backfield. That combination should make him a workhorse from day one. He’ll be running behind an offensive line which features four returning starters, including Joe Thomas and Alex Mack, which should help ease his transition to the next level.
Considering the lack of playmakers in Cleveland, anything less than a 1,200 yard season would be a disappointment for Richardson.
Check out our full review of the Browns 2012 draft class.
