While the NFL is a pass-first league and cornerbacks are paid (and drafted) to cover receivers, being physical in the run game can still be important. That is especially true in the AFC North where Lamar Jackson, J.K. Dobbins, Joe Mixon and Najee Harris are expected to lead quality rushing attacks.
When the Cleveland Browns drafted Greg Newsome II much of the focus was on his speed, quickness and scheme versatility. Expected to play both inside and outside, Newsome has started to show his versatility during training camp and the preseason.
In this clip, he also shows his physicality as he throws a Giants receiver off of him instead of allowing himself to continue to be blocked:
Rag doll those slot WRs off ya! pic.twitter.com/RPBTtQvmYY
— Ben Fennell (@BenFennell_NFL) August 24, 2021
The selection of Newsome in the first round will be judged on how he locks down opposing receivers and makes plays on the football in the passing game. If he can show this kind of physicality, the Northwestern alum will quickly become a fan favorite in Cleveland.