There were fans that were shocked during last April’s draft when the Cleveland Browns traded back and selected Martin Emerson Jr. in the third round. The team had just drafted Greg Newsome in the first round the year before and signed Denzel Ward to a massive extension. After injuries thrust Emerson into the starting lineup he showed that he was up to the challenge of playing corner in the NFL.
Emerson possesses great size which allows him to cover the bigger wide receivers in the league without giving up a ton of separation. This season according to pro football reference Emerson has only allowed a 52.4 percent completion when targeted in the passing game. PFF has graded Emerson as the seventh-highest rookie in coverage this season.
Though he might not have done enough Emerson should get consideration for defensive rookie of the year after being a surprise pick and producing right away. His season-long reception allowed is 45 yards and he has only allowed 101 yards after the catch all season.
Emerson deserves his flowers.
