The Browns are just 1-3, but it’s not because of a lackluster defense. The offense is where the team is struggling, and it’ll have another difficult matchup on Sunday against the Vikings. It’s an international game taking place in London, England.
Cleveland will be without Cedric Tillman, who has two of the team’s three receiving touchdowns this season. It’s a noticeable loss, and someone will need to step up in his absence. In addition to Tillman’s injury, the Browns are starting rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel.
It could change the dynamic of the offense, but more importantly it creates some uncertainty. If Joe Flacco was starting, the team may follow a similar pathway as it did in the first four weeks. Instead, the rookie quarterback may change things up, for better or worse.
One of the top targets on the team this year is Harold Fannin. The rookie tight end has impressed with 17 receptions and 160 receiving yards. With Tillman sidelined, he may earn an even greater target share this week.
That said, will it be enough for him to start in a majority of fantasy football lineups? Probably not. Fannin has been good and his volume should increase slightly, but we’re talking about a Browns’ offense that has scored three receiving touchdowns this season.
Sure, Gabriel is taking over for Flacco, but that doesn’t mean the offense necessarily upgrades. The team may still struggle as Gabriel gets his feet wet in the NFL.
Beyond the offensive situation, the Browns are facing a well-coached Vikings defense. The team ranks ninth in points allowed and seventh in yards allowed this season. Those numbers are even better against the pass, ranking second in touchdowns and third in yards.
A rookie quarterback playing against a strong passing defense is not a good look for Fannin. Start him if you must, but he shouldn’t be the top choice in Week 5.