Cleveland Browns cornerback Cameron Mitchell has seen the field often early in his young career, especially when the team elects to play it safe with Denzel Ward by using him on a limited basis. Per Scott Petrak of the Browns Zone, Cleveland defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz said the following about Mitchell:
“He’s like a relief pitcher, he comes in and gives us good innings.”
Whether Ward is dealing with a concussion or a nagging shoulder injury like last week against Jacksonville, Mitchell can step in and play the nickel corner spot on early downs and non-passing situations to prevent Ward from worsening his injury by tackling a running back downhill. Mitchell’s willingness to make plays in the box and his ability to cover shifty slot receivers make him a perfect option to give Ward a break and shift cornerback Greg Newsome outside.
Given the caution the Browns like to show with Ward to keep him healthy all year, Mitchell plays an integral role by taking a bulk of the snaps on run downs, allowing Ward to come in late in each half and during obvious passing situations.