Finding Browns Fits in the 2023 NFL Draft: Sean Tucker, RB Syracuse
The 2023 NFL Draft offers plenty of talent and depth at the running back position. Depending on how aggressive the Cleveland Browns choose to be, they could add a complementary option or perhaps find the back that takes over for Nick Chubb in a year or two.
Everything will be viewed through the lens of value, but if the Browns love a back, they might take him earlier than expected, adding strength and versatility to the position. Additionally, they may find themselves a player that could take over for Chubb whenever he and the organization part ways.
The acquisition of Deshaun Watson as the team's quarterback could alter how they want the position to play. Being an effective runner will take precedent, but style could play a major role. For example, if the Browns shift into a heavier passing team, they may want a back that enhances the passing attack.
Chubb is a fantastic runner who can make some plays in the passing game, but no one is confusing him with Christian McCaffrey, Austin Ekeler or Alvin Kamara. The Browns might be more inclined to lean into that style of back with Watson. That could be why the Browns drafted Jerome Ford last year out of the University of Cincinnati. Arguably his best trait coming out of college was his ability to impact the passing game.
Maybe the Browns are satisfied that Ford can scratch that itch, but it may be a hint of things to come so long as they can find the right player.
One option that could fit that combination of excellent runner and dynamic pass catcher is Sean Tucker out of Syracuse.
Listed Measurables
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 210 lbs
Tucker's got a compact build and low center of gravity. He's not a huge back, but he's by no means small either, though it will be interesting to see what his weight is when he tests athletically. Tucker's acceleration and agility are excellent. He possesses fluid hips and notable balance. His speed is above average.
Tucker will reportedly celebrate his 22nd birthday in October, which is right where the Browns want to be.
Production
2022: 206 carries for 1,060 yards (5.15 per carry), 36 receptions for 254 yards, 13 total touchdowns in 12 games.
2021: 246 carries for 1,496 yards (6.08 yards per carry), 20 receptions for 255 yards, 14 total touchdowns in 12 games.
Tucker's production is excellent. His 2021 season is downright ridiculous. Tucker was responsible for 39.8 percent of the team's yardage. Every opponent knew they had to stop him and most of them were hopeless in that effort.
Tucker's running style is slippery. Whether he just makes a quick cut or goes herky-jerky with his movements to shake defenders, he's looking to shake defenders and find a running lane to beat them in a race. Tucker is explosive. His acceleration is excellent and he doesn't lose many footraces.
Tucker's main goal as a runner is finding space. He displays good vision, though he will get overly ambitious at times, take some big risks and lose some yardage in the process. There's a hint of Barry Sanders in the way he runs, both in how he makes defenders miss as well as his willingness to take risks.
To their credit, the Syracuse coaching staff catered to Tucker's strengths. One of their most dangerous plays is an outside zone where the quarterback hands the ball to Tucker in an elongated mesh, then immediately goes to seal the nearest unblocked backside defender. Tucker then cuts back and runs behind that block, often times with a ton of green in front of him.
Tucker likes to bounce runs outside. He certainly has the ability to run inside and find running lanes in traffic, but he will often bet on himself to bounce in search of more space and simply outrun opponents. It will be interesting to see how he adjusts in the NFL when opponents can close distance quicker.
Tucker has good strength, but he doesn't actively try to win with power. He's more interested in taking advantage of his speed and quickness and when he takes on contact, simply tries to fall forward as best he can. He's not someone looking to deliver a blow on an opponent.
Tucker's a great runner, but he's a major weapon in the passing game. He runs professional routes, creates separation and puts opponents at a disadvantage. Tucker gets his share of quick swing passes and screens, but he runs wheel routes, choice routes with some whips and angle routes. He sells routes well and will lose defenders. If the opponent doesn't take him seriously, he will punish them for it.
Tucker has his share of drops, but most of them are simply a matter of taking his eye off the ball, trying to create yards after the catch before he's secured the pass. When he's right, Tucker's agility and acceleration, transitioning from pass catcher to receiver is terrifying for the opponent. He's difficult enough to stop as a runner, but when he no longer has to worry about half the defense, he's immediately a threat to score.
Tucker has some experience as a pass protector. He's relatively mediocre at it to this point. The coaching staff at Syracuse found more value having him constantly go out for passes than to have him block in his final season. He draws plenty of attention that way.
Why the Browns Could Like Him
Tucker is a terrific runner with experience in zone and gap concepts. Perhaps more importantly, his ability to impact the passing game could be perfect to pair with a quarterback like Deshaun Watson.
Tucker is great at operating in the scramble drill and finds a way to get to a spot where the quarterback can get him the ball. Additionally, if he does something as simple as operate as a checkdown near the sideline, it's going to pull another defender out of the middle of the field. That could open up passing lanes or create space for Watson to win with his legs.
Tucker looks like a back who could easily contribute 30 receptions right out of the box because of how he puts added stress on a defense. If the Browns are spread out, he can run a screen or an angle route to attack the middle of the field. If they want to clear out a side, Tucker can win on a wheel route.
In some regards, having a back who is viable to go out on a pass every play is better for Watson. He has more space to operate and the opponent would be restricted in how many defenders they can send. Tucker will need to work to get better in pass protection, but his main contribution should be as a receiver.
As a complement to Chubb, Tucker has the potential to be a slasher that beats them with speed. He thrives in space, so if the Browns want to spread out, he can excel against a limited box. Meanwhile, he's also good if the Browns want to play bigger, force the opponent to use heavier personnel and play closer to the line of scrimmage, he can win on the perimeter.
The Bottom Line
Sean Tucker could be an excellent complement to Nick Chubb initially, but he has the potential to be the heir to his throne and perhaps fit the way the Cleveland Browns offense is headed because of his ability to impact the passing game.
