Not much is usually expected of seventh round draft picks, especially in their rookie seasons. But, there is an exception every now and again. I believe wide receiver Noah Brown is such an exception and I think he could have a big role with the Dallas Cowboys as a rookie.
You may think that I’m jumping the gun here a little bit since the Dallas Cowboys haven’t even reported to training camp yet. But, there is a lot to like about Noah Brown and the variety of different ways he can be utilized.
Noah Brown didn’t exactly put up eye-popping numbers in college while at Ohio State. In fact his 33 reception, seven touchdown, 24 collegiate game career doesn’t inspire much confidence that he even deserves a shot in the NFL. But, numbers don’t always tell the entire story.
Despite his rather disappointing collegiate career, the Dallas Cowboys decided that his upside was worth using one of their seventh round draft picks on. He does possess the prototypical size (6’2″, 222) and skill set to become a true #1 WR in the NFL at some point down the road.
However, he may need a year or two to develop a little more, but that doesn’t mean he can’t contribute in a big way for the Cowboys in the meantime. In fact, he has already caught the attention of offensive coordinator Scott Linehan.
“[Brown] is a little bit of an all-around guy,” Cowboys offensive coordinator Scott Linehan, via Dallas Morning News. “He’s an outside receiver with a big frame (6’2”, 222). He’s kind of got a “tweeter” size when it comes to receiver. He’s got a little bit of a TE element to his game as far as his size and the matchup and the people he’s blocking. So he should match up well in that area.”
Linehan might have tipped his hand a little bit here as to the role they could possibly have envisioned for Noah Brown. It’s that “tweeter” size and blocking ability that will likely earn him a roster spot and a role as a rookie in 2017.
As things stand right now, I wouldn’t be surprised if Noah Brown isn’t the best blocking wide receiver on the entire Cowboys roster. It doesn’t matter if he’s blocking in the running or passing game, he’s equally as efficient and dominant. It’s arguably his best trait right now and something that could be utilized right away.
If you don’t believe me, take a look for yourself.
This is just one play of many in which Noah Brown absolutely obliterates his target when blocking. This is an area of his game that would be extremely useful for the Cowboys already dominant running game.
Can you imagine what would happen if Ezekiel Elliott had a one-on-one opportunity against a cornerback like in the clip above? That would pretty much be a guaranteed TD.
Brown’s best attribute might be his blocking right now, but he can also contribute on special teams and as a wide receiver. In fact, he has some highlight reel touchdown catches in college where he showed his untapped potential.
I personally envision a big role for Noah Brown as a rookie. I see him being utilized as a core special-teams player, a wide receiver, and possibly as a H-backTE. But, I think he will do most of his damage as a blocker.
It’s going to be really difficult for the Dallas Cowboys not to include him on their final 53-man roster. I think he’s really going to start turning some heads once training camp gets underway and start making a name for himself.
Keep an eye out for #85, because I believe he has a bright future ahead of himself.
If the Cowboys only carry 5 WR then he will have to beat out Butlercand Anthony jones assuming whitehead is released. He will have to have a great camp since butler shined in OTAs. Plus, would linnehan even know how to use him to optimal effect?
Ethan, whether or not the Cowboys keep five or six WRs is going to be a big debate until they finally complete the 53-man roster. I just think Noah Brown can help out many different ways and play a variety of different roles. It’s going to be difficult to keep him off the roster. That’s why I think they ultimately decide to carry six WRs. And I think Linehan already has an idea of how to use Brown.
Ok sounds like brown can block but can he run nfl route tree and catch? Trading camp ain’t pre season aint games that count. See butler for that and how did linnehan do with Escobar and whitehead?
Brown will definitely have to work on his route running, but so do most rookies entering the NFL. Linehan could design specific packages for him where he knows exactly what he needs to do and how to execute those plays. Whether he is blocking or running a specific route, he should be able to get those plays down pat before the season starts. I envision the same kind of thing for Rico Gathers until his development gets to where it needs to be. Sometimes you just need to simplify things in order to get some of your players on the field.
great highlight, was not expecting a block like that.