Five Bold Post-Lockout Predictions for Browns

Another season is on the horizon for the Cleveland Browns, but the questions are raised once again this 2011 season. The Browns have changed head coaches, and practically have changed most of their coaching staff. However, the team remains the same as last year, except new rookies and a few new free agents. Inside my slideshow, I will show bold predictions for the Browns as their new season is just coming up.

Montario Hardesty Will Have More Carries Than Hillis

Last season, Hardesty was injured and was out for the year so that led Hillis taking all of the carries for the Browns last season. This season, Hardesty is fully recovered from his ACL injury, and will be taking carries from Hillis. I see this as a good thing, as Hillis wore down last season, and giving more carries to Hardesty to help Hillis isn't a bad thing at all.

Give Me Some "Moore": Evan Moore Will Be Targeted More

Evan Moore is an very good target for McCoy, as he is 6'6, and 255 pounds. He displays outstanding athleticism as a receiver and as a tight end, and has very solid hands. I look for Evan Moore to be targeted early and often this season. 

Jabaal Sheard Will Be a Factor on Defense

Standing at 6'3, and at 264 pounds, Sheard shows the explosiveness and quickness that is needed to be a starting-caliber defensive end. Sheard was drafted by the Browns in the second round, and was thought very highly by the Browns. Sheard will be an excellent asset in the 4-3 system, and even though he is a rookie, I expect to be a solid defensive end for the Browns this season and for many more seasons.

Peyton Hillis Will Have More Receiving Touchdowns

Peyton Hillis had an career year last season, posting 1,177 yards with a 4.4 yard average and a total of 10 touchdowns. However, due to the return of Hardesty, Hillis's carries are sure to go down, and will have less yards on the ground. I do envision Hillis having more receiving touchdowns, as he only had one touchdown receiving last season. 

Greg Little Will Be the Browns Number One Receiver

Due to the Browns' recent rash of injuries to Cribbs, Massaquoi, Mitchell, Little is finally getting an opportunity to play in the number one receiving role. The reports showed that Little made most of his opportunities, snagging passes from McCoy in the new west-coast offense, and showing little rust from his one year suspension last season in college at North Carolina. Also, Little knows the terminology of the new west-coast offense that Shurmur is implementing so that is all the more the reason that Little may be starting by opening day.