Former Tennessee WR Cedric Tillman Named Starter for Cleveland Browns Ahead of 2025 NFL Season
In a development that underscores both perseverance and rising talent, former Tennessee Volunteers standout wide receiver Cedric Tillman has officially been named a starter for the Cleveland Browns ahead of the 2025 NFL season. The announcement, made during a post-training camp press conference by head coach Kevin Stefanski, marks a significant milestone in Tillman’s NFL journey — and signals that the Browns are placing real trust in the second-year receiver.
Tillman, a 2023 third-round draft pick, has been quietly ascending the depth chart in Cleveland. With injuries, offseason departures, and his own impressive development, the 6-foot-3, 215-pound receiver now finds himself in a prime position to be a key contributor in a Browns offense looking to rebound from an inconsistent 2024 season.
From Rocky Top to the Dawg Pound
Cedric Tillman’s journey from collegiate promise to NFL starter hasn’t been the smoothest. At Tennessee, Tillman flashed elite potential — most notably during his breakout 2021 season, where he posted 64 receptions for 1,081 yards and 12 touchdowns. That campaign included standout performances against Alabama, Georgia, and Purdue, and had scouts buzzing about his NFL upside.
However, injuries in 2022 hampered his draft stock, and he ultimately slid into the third round, where the Browns selected him with the 74th overall pick. Despite modest rookie-year numbers — just 20 catches for 239 yards and no touchdowns in 2023 — Cleveland’s coaching staff remained high on his potential.
“He’s a grinder,” said Stefanski during camp. “He’s always been about putting in the work. We saw flashes of what he could be last year, and this offseason, he’s taken a massive step forward — mentally and physically. He’s earned this.”
What This Means for Cleveland’s Offense
Tillman’s elevation to the starting lineup comes at a time when the Browns are retooling their passing attack. With veteran wideout Amari Cooper nearing the end of his contract and recent trade rumors surrounding other offensive pieces, the Browns are clearly preparing for a future with younger talent taking center stage.
In recent practices and preseason tune-ups, Tillman has been running primarily on the outside, often opposite Cooper or Elijah Moore. His size, catch radius, and ability to win contested balls have been emphasized in play design, particularly in red zone packages.
Quarterback Deshaun Watson, entering a pivotal year himself, has spoken highly of Tillman’s growth.
“Ced’s been a huge target for us this offseason,” Watson told reporters. “He’s got that big-body presence, and he’s improved his route-running and timing a lot. I trust him in jump-ball situations. He’s going to be a big part of what we do this year.”
Building Chemistry and Confidence
Tillman’s jump to a starting role hasn’t just been about opportunity — it’s also been about readiness. After a relatively quiet rookie year, many wondered if Tillman could carve out a consistent role in a Browns receiver room that included more experienced players. But his work ethic, patience, and maturity are now paying off.
Veteran receiver Amari Cooper praised Tillman during a recent interview, saying, “He asks the right questions, shows up early, stays late. You can tell he wants to get better every day. That’s the kind of guy you want lining up with you on Sundays.”
Tillman himself remains humble about the promotion.
“It’s a blessing, but I know the real work starts now,” he said during his first media availability as a starter. “I’ve learned a lot in the past year — about being a pro, about staying locked in, and about competing every snap. I’m thankful for the trust the coaches and my teammates have in me, and I’m going to make sure I earn it every week.”
A Star in the Making?
While it’s too early to project Pro Bowl accolades, the signs point to Tillman being more than just a role player in the Browns’ offense. His skill set — physicality, strong hands, and deceptive speed — makes him a matchup problem for most defensive backs, especially when paired with faster, shiftier receivers like Moore or David Bell.
Analysts are already circling Tillman as a fantasy football sleeper and breakout candidate. ESPN’s Mina Kimes called Tillman “a high-upside WR2 with WR1 potential,” noting his ability to make plays downfield and absorb contact.
If he can stay healthy and continue building chemistry with Watson, Tillman could easily surpass his rookie stats by midseason. A 700- to 900-yard season with multiple touchdowns isn’t out of the question — and that would make him one of the most valuable young receivers in the AFC North.
Looking Ahead
The Browns open their 2025 season with a highly anticipated Week 1 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens — a game that will provide an immediate test for the newly minted starter. Tillman is expected to start on the outside and could be matched up against elite cornerbacks like Marlon Humphrey, setting the stage for a baptism-by-fire moment.
For now, though, the message is clear: Cedric Tillman has arrived. From overcoming injury setbacks in college to earning a starting spot in one of the NFL’s most physical divisions, his ascent is a testament to resilience and talent.
- Cleveland may have drafted Tillman for the future, but that future appears to have officially begun — and the Dawg Pound is ready to watch him shine.