Cleveland Browns cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. is having a breakout sophomore season. He has two interceptions on the year and has allowed just 22 receptions on 51 targets for 341 yards.
His play is a big reason why the Browns have allowed the fewest passing yards in the NFL and the fifth-fewest passing touchdowns. Emerson even ranks fourth in the NFL in coverage snaps without giving up a touchdown, according to Pro Football Focus.
No Fly Zone 🔒 pic.twitter.com/gbUE5RcAQk
— PFF (@PFF) December 9, 2023
Emerson was a third-round pick out of Mississippi State in 2022 and while he played sparingly during his rookie season, he’s stepped up immensely this year. He’s started a career-high eight games this season as the Browns secondary was hit with injuries to Denzel Ward and Greg Newsome II, including five consecutive games. Emerson has also allowed the second-lowest completion percentage when targeted among defensive backs with at least seven starts.
This is why depth matters in the NFL so much. Ward and Newsome II are both starting-caliber first round picks who battled injuries all season long. But Emerson has stepped up and into a huge role on the team and performed at a top-five level. For the Browns’ secondary to continue to be among the best, they’ll need Emerson to continue playing at a Pro Bowl level.
His next test will be against a depleted Jacksonville Jaguars squad who could be without quarterback Trevor Lawrence and will certainly be without wide receiver Christian Kirk. Jacksonville still has a potent passing attack, though, wideouts Calvin Ridley and Zay Jones, tight end Evan Engram and running back Travis Etienne.
