Donovan Peoples-Jones is no longer the Cleveland Browns kick returner. The rookie gave way to running back D’Ernest Johnson in the Week 12 win over the Jaguars after some uneasy moments and misadventures running back kicks the prior few weeks.
Johnson cranked out the two longest returns on kickoffs all season in his three attempts. And Peoples-Jones was one of the keys, showing off some serious blocking chops on the successful returns.
Browns special teams coach Mike Priefer is proud of Peoples-Jones quickly adapting to his new role and not letting his ego or disappointment at losing the job get in the way.
“Like a pro,” Priefer responded when asked in his weekly press conference about how Peoples-Jones handled the demotion. “He’s an amazing young man. I’m proud of him. It’s hard for a young player who came in — we drafted him to be a returner.”
The change seems like a permanent one.
“I think D’Ernest provided a bit of juice for us on kickoff return last week. That was very evident and Donovan was a big part of that. He did a great job lead blocking,” Priefer said, also noting how well Peoples-Jones blew up the kicker on the first return.
Peoples-Jones remains the Browns’ punt returner. He played 11 snaps on offense in Jacksonville and did not see a passing target.
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