Early in the second quarter against the Steelers in Week 4, QB Deshaun Watson dropped back to pass and locked his eyes to the left side of the field. He saw WR Denzel Boston matched up against fellow rookie CB Daylen Everette in man-to-man coverage with no safety help and let the ball fly.
Boston ran under the football and exploded for a 60-yard gain to Pittsburgh's 14-yard line, marking the Browns' longest offensive play of the season through four games. On top of that play, Boston also has the Browns' next three longest passing plays this season, including his 46-yard touchdown reception in Week 1, 55-yard touchdown reception in Week 2 and a 28-yard reception in Week 3.
"I'd say the big plays come from Deshaun being able to find me when the time comes," Boston said. "And then also I think it comes from hard work, a lot of practice, a lot of preparation, and film study. All those different things that you see carry over into the game."
With his tendency to create explosive plays down the field, Boston has jumped out to a quick start in his rookie season. He leads the Browns and ranks 11th in the NFL with 284 receiving yards heading into Week 5. Boston is also second in the league averaging 21.8 yards per reception, according to ESPN. His unique physical skillset has allowed him to showcase his threat as an explosive receiver in the Browns' offense. Only four games into his career, Boston's preparation and play on the field have earned him the trust of both Watson and the Browns' coaching staff.
"The more we play, the more we get more reps, the more confidence we build in each other. And that chemistry continues to build," Watson said. "He's been doing a heck of a job whenever his number is called and his opportunity comes, he makes those plays, and he's just going to continue to get better and better each week."
While it can be difficult to determine if rookies have the correct mindset during the draft process, head coach Todd Monken explained, he said that Boston is "wired the right way." That wiring includes Boston's self-belief in his skillset, which has been present since the beginning of his NFL career. After being drafted in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft with the 39th pick, Boston planned to have an impact early on. Now, almost six months later, that plan is coming to fruition.
Offensive coordinator Travis Switzer detailed how Boston's skillset and size make him a mismatch for opposing defenses. Boston's 6-foot-4 frame, combined with his ability to beat taller defenders deep, is a unique set of tools, which have allowed him to create consistent separation and develop into one of the Browns' go-to options in the pass game. He ranks fourth on the team with 13 receptions and second with two receiving touchdowns through the first four games.
"It's the mix of his size and his body control," Switzer said. "It's kind of picking your poison in some ways."
Teammates have noticed Boston's quick adjustment to the Browns' offense, including both WR KC Concepcion Jr. and CB Denzel Ward. Ward, who matched up with Boston throughout training camp, noted that he saw Boston's game was ready for the NFL from the beginning.
"He came in polished. He came in ready to play and was making plays early on in camp and going into the season," Ward said. "He's a great player. He's been coming along for us."
Boston feels he has quickly integrated into the Browns' offense due to his preparation. Concepcion has seen that work ethic in action, noting that Boston hits the field early before practice to work on the JUGS machine. Catching every ball that comes his way is a part of his game that he takes pride in, Boston explained.
And as the Browns look to build on their 3-1 record, Boston is looking continue his breakout start to the season by staying consistent in his approach.
"Now that I've gained the trust from (Watson and the coaches), being able to maintain the trust and make sure I'm staying on top of my routine is also a key part," Boston said.
Browse photos of the Cleveland Browns practicing at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus as they prepare for their Week 5 matchup against the New York Jets.
Running back Quinshon Judkins (10) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Offensive tackle Austin Barber (58) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Linebacker Quincy Williams (5) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Wide receiver KC Concepcion Jr. (1) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Cornerback Denzel Ward (21) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) and Cornerback Tyson Campbell (7) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Linebacker Quincy Williams (5) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive tackle Maliek Collins (96) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Cornerback Mekhi Blackmon (29) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Running back Raheim Sanders (23) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Center Luke Wypler (56) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Quarterback Shedeur Sanders (2) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive Line Coach Jacques Cesaire during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive tackle Kalia Davis (93) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Quarterback Dillon Gabriel (6) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Offensive guard Zion Johnson (77) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Punter Corey Bojorquez (13) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Wide receiver Denzel Boston (12) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Head Coach Todd Monken during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Offensive tackle Dawand Jones (79) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive Backs Coach/Pass Game Specialist Coach Brandon Lynch during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Tight end John FitzPatrick (87) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Pass Game Coordinator Ephraim Banda during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Wide receiver James Proche II (80) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
A football during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. (19) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Linebacker Winston Reid (59) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Running back Eric Gray (41) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive Line Coach Jacques Cesaire during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive end Jared Verse (8) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond (0) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Offensive guard Zion Johnson (77) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive tackle Zion Logue (69) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Offensive tackle Spencer Fano (55) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Wide receiver Bub Means (81) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Long snapper Rex Sunahara (50) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Offensive tackle Dawand Jones (79) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive end Logan Fano (99) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Running back Jaret Patterson (41) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Wide receiver James Proche II (80) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive end Sam Kamara (92) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Cornerback Myles Bryant (27) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive tackle Chris Williams (61) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive end Logan Fano (99) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Cornerback Myles Bryant (27) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive end Nadame Tucker (60) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Pass Game Coordinator Ephraim Banda during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond (0) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
A Crucial Catch helmet decal during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive end Derek Barnett (97) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive tackle Chris Williams (53) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive end Jared Verse (8) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. (19) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Linebacker Krys Barnes (43) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Running back Jaret Patterson (41) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Cornerback Denzel Ward (21) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Safety Zion Washington (30) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Cornerback Michael Coats Jr. (39) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Offensive tackle Dawand Jones (79) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Head Coach Todd Monken during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Offensive guard Zion Johnson (77) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Offensive tackle KT Leveston (72) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Offensive tackle KT Leveston (72) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive tackle Chris Williams (53) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive end Nadame Tucker (60) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. (19) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Running back Quinshon Judkins (10) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive end Isaiah McGuire (57) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Running back Jaleel McLaughlin (38) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Assistant Quarterbacks Coach Matt Baker during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Quarterback Taylen Green (15) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Wide receiver James Proche II (80) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Fullback Michael Burton (34) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Wide receiver Bub Means (81) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive tackle Zion Logue (69) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (44) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Tight end Carsen Ryan (48) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Tight end John FitzPatrick (87) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Offensive guard Zak Zinter (70) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive tackle Chris Williams (53) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Cornerback Myles Harden (26) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive tackle Zion Logue (69) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Defensive tackle Maliek Collins (96) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Linebacker Justin Jefferson (17) during practice on October 7, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Cornerback Denzel Ward (21) during practice on October 8, 2026 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
