Browns wide receiver Jerry Jeudy is on a hot streak as he prepares to face his former team, the Denver Broncos. Since Week 8, Jeudy has hauled in 24 receptions for 379 yards and a touchdown, showcasing a notable surge in performance.
In last week’s game against the Steelers, Jeudy proved crucial in Cleveland’s victory. The fifth-year wideout tallied 46 of his 85 receiving yards in the second half, helping the Browns secure an upset in challenging snowy conditions—described by quarterback Jameis Winston as “true football weather.”
Jeudy’s production has increased since Winston became the Browns’ starter, making him the quarterback’s top target. Across Cleveland’s last four games, Jeudy has averaged 94.8 receiving yards, including a standout 142-yard game against the Saints in Week 11, his best performance since a 152-yard game in the 2022 season finale.
Now, Jeudy returns to Denver, where he began his NFL career with lofty expectations that ultimately fell short before his trade to Cleveland last spring. Despite his inconsistency with the Broncos, his former team recognizes the challenge he poses.
“He’s different,” said Broncos safety P.J. Locke, who competed against Jeudy in practice during his four seasons in Denver. “A lot of receivers pace themselves, but Jeudy is full speed and super tough to guard.”
In 2022, Jeudy delivered a career-high 972 receiving yards and six touchdowns, raising hopes for his emergence as a true No. 1 receiver. However, his production dipped in 2023, with 54 catches for 758 yards and just two touchdowns. A fresh start came in March when Denver traded Jeudy to Cleveland for fifth- and sixth-round 2024 draft picks. The Broncos used those picks in deals to acquire wide receiver Troy Franklin and quarterback Zach Wilson.
Despite the trade, Denver head coach Sean Payton remains an admirer of Jeudy’s abilities. “From a talent standpoint, he has great hips, great transitions, and exceptional football IQ,” Payton said.
Jeudy’s dynamic style has drawn comparisons to a gazelle. “He can change direction in an instant,” Locke said.
Through 11 games this season, Jeudy is on track for career highs, with 45 catches for 645 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 14.3 yards per reception. His connection with Winston has been a key factor in Cleveland’s offense, highlighted by a clutch 15-yard catch to set up Nick Chubb’s game-winning touchdown against Pittsburgh.
As Jeudy prepares to face his old team on Monday, Locke anticipates a thrilling matchup. “It’s going to be fun,” he said. “I know he’s going to be hyped coming back to Denver.”
