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For multiple seasons, the Cleveland Browns have lacked that go-to receiver that can continue crucial drives. To help, the orange-and-brown made a draft day trade for possession and veteran receiver, Davone Bess from the Miami Dolphins. However, there is another receiver that everyone should keep on their radar screen this season. In his second year from Oklahoma State, no. 88 Josh Cooper is the guy to watch.

Battling Jordan Norwood (who signed a contract extension in the offseason), Cooper has been turning heads at training camp. It is impossible to not notice him. In yesterday’s practice, fans witnessed him at multiple receiver positions flying all over the field. What’s impressive about Cooper is the fact that all three quarterbacks seem to trust and look his way often.

During 11-on-11 team drills, Cooper was seen with the first team offense and it is very easy to see that he still has that college fluidity with Brandon Weeden. While many fans do like Norwood, his time is slowly being cut down due to injury and Cooper’s solid play. Look for a lot of playing time for Cooper on Thursday night against the Detroit Lions.

From the looks of the first game, offensive coordinator Norv Turner’s offense is going to rely on a group effort with his receivers. Against the St. Louis Rams, Weeden found six different pass catchers in his ten completions. If he makes the team, this is why Cooper can have an impact. Remember, Josh Gordon is out for the first two regular season contests.

When Cooper came off the practice squad last season and participated in the season, we saw flashes (6 games, 8 receptions, 108 yards) of a possession receiver that could move the chains. While he may not be the fastest receiver, Cooper’s hands and smarts should put him on this team in 2013. The only question that remains is; what will he do with his opportunity when he makes it?

Ryan Ruiz is the Cleveland Browns Beat Writer for The Inscriber: Digital Magazine. You can follow him on Facebook and Twitter @ryanpruiz24. He is also a Cleveland Browns correspondent for The SportsFix. Tune in every Friday at noon on www.thesportsfix.net.

 

SIDE NOTE:  Many of you know, my father passed away at the young age of 57 years old on August 1st 2013. I want to THANK all my supporters, followers, and fans of my work for reaching out to me these past couple of weeks with an abundance of prayers and condolences. My family and I appreciate every one of you!

R.I.P.         Raymond Paul Ruiz             1/28/56 – 8/1/13

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