[jwplayer HKl1OpGJ]
The Cleveland Browns managed to pillage a former starting wide receiver from the Cincinnati Bengals. The Browns claimed Damion Willis off waivers from Cincinnati on Wednesday. He will be added to Cleveland’s roster once he passes through the COVID-19 protocols.
What are the Browns getting in Willis?
It’s overselling Willis in labeling him a former starter. While technically true — he indeed started for the Bengals in Weeks 1 and 2 in 2019 — the 23-year-old Willis played just 239 total offensive snaps. That’s still impressive for an undrafted rookie from Troy and speaks to Willis’s upside.
At 6-4 and 204 listed pounds, Willis is a long, lean receiver. The Bengals used him primarily outside but he did get some reps as their big slot, and that’s where he was most effective in Cincinnati. It’s probably his best fit in Cleveland, too.
He has speed (4.48 40-yard dash at his pro day) but it’s fairly straight-line, and that shows in his route-running. Willis can make catches away from his body and uses his length well to present himself as a big target. While he’s not a muscular guy, Willis can fight for contested throws and hang on through contact. He’s flashed the ability to climb the ladder and catch high throws. There’s not a lot of wiggle or power after the catch.
Willis is a Last Chance U. alum prior to attending Troy. It speaks to his character and drive that he went from there to starting in the NFL in Week 1 as an undrafted rookie. Hopefully, Willis gets a chance to show the Browns something in the limited time left in training camp.