Browns didn’t use undrafted rookie last season
Dontrell Hilliard didn’t take a handoff last year as an undrafted rookie running back, but the news of the Browns’ trade of Duke Johnson Jr. to the Houston Texans on Thursday showed the confidence the Browns have in Hilliard as the likely running mate to starter Nick Chubb.
“I feel real comfortable,” Hilliard said. “Anytime my number is called, I can be the guy, so I have no doubt in my mind I can fill a more important role. It’s a competitive game, and that move they made opened an opportunity for me, and I’m going to take advantage of it.” (ClevelandBrowns.com)
Nerdy Football Analysis: Hilliard is in line to begin the season behind Chubb on the depth chart, should have opportunities as a pass-catching running back used mostly on third down plays, and get the occasional carry. Hilliard’s value will take a hit once Kareem Hunt returns from an eight-game suspension, but for now he’s the primary backup and is worth a close look in deeper PPR leagues.