While all the attention in Cleveland is focused on the Shedeur Sanders-Deshaun Watson duel, there's one spot that will see immense competition: wide receiver. And according to Bleacher Report journalist Kristopher Knox, it won't be an easy fight for rookie KC Concepcion.

Knox wrote, "With their second first-round pick, the Browns grabbed Texas A&M's KC Concepcion, a dynamic, explosive receiver with after-the-catch ability. However, second-round pick Denzel Boston might be closer to being a Week 1 starter. The bigger Boston projects as a strong perimeter complement opposite Jerry Jeudy, which would most likely put Concepcion in the slot."

Despite fumbles and inconsistencies across a season that saw him post 602 yards and 2 touchdowns, Jerry Jeudy remains a top-veteran choice for the team. He might pair perfectly with KC Concepcion, who tallied 919 yards and 9 touchdowns in his final college season.

However, the problem will be another young star, Isaiah Bond. That's what Knox believes as well. "However, 2025 undrafted free agent Isaiah Bond will be fighting for slot time, which means Concepcion may face a legitimate position battle in camp. Concepcion will likely have the inside track due to draft status, but his competition with Bond should be one of the more intriguing training camp storylines."

Now, what has been a strong factor for Concepcion isn't just that he's the 24th pick. Last season, undrafted free agent Bond wasn't able to produce, managing 338 yards and no touchdowns. The Browns may just go for a more reliable receiver, even if it's a rookie.

In any case, Concepcion looks ready. After signing a $19.75 million contract, the rookie said, per Cleveland.com, "I’m ready right now. I’m ready to play. I’m ready to change the organization."

And so far, he's making a lot of progress.

Minicamp progress signals readiness

Receivers coach Christian Jones spoke about the progress KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston made so far in the mandatory minicamp.

"The rookies have done a good job. Once you get them to understand the plays and how to do things the right way, it’s time for their talents to shine. They’ve done a good job. KC came in with the right mindset. He was ready to work on what he thought was an issue coming into the draft, which were his drops. Denzel wanted to show everybody what he could do."

Last season, the receiving corps couldn't perform well for the Browns. In fact, not a single receiver was able to cross the 1000-yard mark. Tight-end Harold Fannin Jr. managed only 731 yards and six touchdowns.

If the receiving corps is able to perform well this season, the Browns can turn around their 5-12 record into a winning season.

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Written by

Siddharth Shirwadkar