The Cleveland Browns’ decision to pick KC Concepcion as their first wide receiver unsettled fans. They could not look past his glaring drop rate, which was highlighted during the live broadcast as well. 

Although considered an elite playmaker and a top-tier separator on the field, Concepcion's performance saw major drops in 2024 and 2025. NFL analyst Field Yates observed that the drops were less of an ability issue and had more to do with loss of concentration while anticipating receives over the middle.

However, in a recent media session, Concepcion reassured fans that he was aware of his shortcomings and was working on eliminating them. On April 25, Browns reporter Daryl Ruiter shared an X post of Concepcion addressing his drops. 

“I accept it. I have had drops, but it's more concentration, focusing on the ball. I’ve been working nonstop at it… It’s going to get fixed for sure”, KC Concepcion said. 

On Day 1, the Browns traded down with the Kansas City Chiefs. They used the newfound 24th pick to bring in another wide receiver to bolster their offense. Concepcion is a first-round pick but is coming off the 2025 season with a drop record of 10.3%. 

The 21-year-old recorded 19 dropped passes across the three years of his college career. Concepcion played for NC State in 2023 and 24 before transferring to Texas A&M. 

However, in three years of his college career, Concepcion still recorded 185 receptions for 2,218 yards. He scored 25 receiving touchdowns, gained 3 TDs, and 431 rushing yards from 70 carries.

So, while his drop rate is concerning, it does not overshadow Concepcion’s collegiate performance or achievements. Moreover, general manager Andrew Berry has his back.

Cleveland Browns’ Stance On Concepcion’s Performance

Later on Day 1, the Browns' GM Andrew Berry appeared in a media session and addressed KC Concepcion’s drop rate. The GM looked at him beyond his stats and has campaigned to give the rookie WR a fair chance. 

“Every receiver besides maybe Larry Fitzgerald has a couple drops. And, KC, he’s been a dynamic producer,” he told reporters. “I told him I think it’s incredible what he’s overcome and gone through in his life. I really loved the person.” 

Concepcion is a 2025 Consensus All-American athlete and won the Paul Hornung Award last year. He was also the ACC Rookie of the Year in 2023. 

Apart from his on-field performance, Berry is impressed by the impact Concepcion has made outside. In a letter published in The Player’s Tribune on 16 April, Concepcion spoke about his stutter and asked NFL managers to judge him for his skills as a football player.

“My stutter is part of who I am, but it’s not all of who I am,” he stated. “Here’s who I also am: I’m the best receiver in this draft. Period. I run crisp routes. I catch everything thrown anywhere near me. I work my tail off every practice, every drill. I get in and out of my breaks fast. And I will outwork ANYBODY you put in front of me.”

Concepcion's commitment to give his all, even during practices, is something head coach Monken touched upon, calling him "an unbelievable practice player."

Concepcion seems to be just the spirited WR the Browns have been looking for. His natural abilities and love for the game contribute to his potential to become a valuable part of the Cleveland Browns roster.

If Berry and Concepcion have promised improvement and results, all fans can do is see whether they are proven wrong. What are your thoughts?

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit