UNC Football: Ryan Switzer to the Cleveland Browns?

Could the former UNC football wide receiver help fill the Cleveland Browns’ current punt/kick returner void?

Since being waived by the Pittsburgh Steelers during cutdown weekend on September 5, Ryan Switzer has been waiting for a potential return to the NFL. Is it possible that the former Tar Heel could end up back in the AFC North? Based on current reports, it’s definite possibility.

Switzer is currently going through COVID-19 testing, as there is hope that he’ll have a free agent visit with the Cleveland Browns at the end of the week. As per the NFL’s current guidelines, free agents must test negative three times prior to being allowed in a club’s facilities.

After JoJo Natson suffered a season-ending injury, the Browns found themselves needing another player that can return punts and kickoffs. Of the players available via free agency, Switzer may have the most experience in that department.

Over his three seasons in the NFL, Switzer has returned 67 punts for 537 yards and one touchdown. The former Tar Heel has also returned 63 kickoffs for 1,373 yards, which is just under 22 yards per attempt.

Although the Browns have ample talent at the wide receiver position, the 25-year-old could also end up being an option in the pass game. He’s hauled in 50 passes for 321 yards and a score over his professional career.

Switzer was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He has since spent time with the Oakland Raiders and Pittsburgh Steelers, and is vying for another opportunity. If the Browns were to sign Switzer this week, his debut with his new team could come against the team that drafted him, as Cleveland is scheduled to travel to Dallas for a Week 4 matchup.

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