VFL Cedric Tillman Named a Starter for the Cleveland Browns: A New Era Begins
CLEVELAND, OH — In a move that has Tennessee Volunteers (VFL) fans buzzing with excitement, Cedric Tillman, the standout wide receiver, has officially been named a starter for the Cleveland Browns ahead of the 2025 NFL season. This news marks a significant milestone in Tillman’s career, as he transitions from a star at the University of Tennessee to a key figure in the Browns’ potent offensive lineup.
The announcement comes after an impressive training camp and preseason for the former Vols standout, who has continued to build on the momentum from his successful college career. Tillman’s blend of size, speed, and athleticism has caught the attention of coaches and fans alike, earning him the coveted starting position over a competitive group of wide receivers.
A Star Is Born in Knoxville
Tillman’s journey to the NFL has been nothing short of remarkable. A native of Las Vegas, Nevada, Tillman originally committed to Tennessee in 2018, quickly emerging as one of the most physically gifted receivers in the SEC. However, it wasn’t until his junior season in 2022 that he truly became a household name.
With over 1,100 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns in 2022, Tillman played an integral role in helping the Volunteers reach new heights under head coach Josh Heupel. He showcased his ability to dominate at the line of scrimmage with his 6’3″ frame, impressive leaping ability, and smooth route-running that made him a tough cover for any defender.
He was especially effective in key moments, including multiple clutch performances against teams like Alabama and Georgia, solidifying his status as a game-breaking talent. His consistency, coupled with his ability to come through in critical situations, made him one of the most highly regarded wide receivers entering the 2023 NFL Draft.
Draft Night and the Browns’ Faith in Tillman
Despite suffering a slight dip in production during the 2023 season due to injury, Tillman was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the third round of the draft, with the 74th overall pick. The Browns saw his potential and viewed him as a key piece for their future. They liked his physical attributes, his knack for making contested catches, and his ability to stretch the field.
Tillman’s rookie season was initially expected to be a learning curve as he adapted to the speed and complexity of the NFL. However, he impressed during OTAs, training camp, and the preseason, showing that his physical traits were just as effective against the best defensive backs in the world. He proved himself as a legitimate threat both on the outside and in the red zone, catching passes from Deshaun Watson and quickly earning the trust of the Browns’ offensive staff.
The Browns’ Offensive Revitalization
The Cleveland Browns have spent the past few seasons attempting to find their identity on offense. With Deshaun Watson under center, the franchise hopes to return to playoff contention after a period of rebuilding. The addition of Cedric Tillman to the starting lineup only strengthens their efforts.
Tillman’s size and athleticism offer a unique dimension to the Browns’ receiving corps. With Amari Cooper on one side and Tillman on the other, Cleveland now has one of the most dynamic and physically imposing wide receiver duos in the league. Watson can now rely on Tillman’s ability to win contested catches, stretch the field with deep routes, and create mismatches against opposing defenses. The rookie’s ability to contribute immediately will be crucial for the Browns, especially as they look to balance their offense with a solid running game led by Nick Chubb.
A New Weapon for Deshaun Watson
Perhaps the most exciting aspect of Tillman’s rookie season with the Browns is his potential chemistry with Deshaun Watson. Watson, who has shown flashes of his elite potential in previous seasons, now has a big, fast target in Tillman to go along with Cooper and Donovan Peoples-Jones. This adds a new dimension to an offense that can now attack defenses on multiple levels.
Watson is known for his ability to make tight throws in the deep passing game, and Tillman’s ability to track balls over his shoulder and make spectacular catches downfield makes him a perfect fit in this offense. Additionally, Tillman’s ability to contribute in the intermediate and short passing game, thanks to his route running and physicality, will make him a versatile option in various schemes.
Immediate Expectations for Tillman
As a starter, Tillman will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact for the Browns. His size and skill set give him the ability to come in and contribute from day one. While he may not have the same level of polish as some other rookie wide receivers, his upside is undeniable. His presence in the starting lineup will allow the Browns to exploit matchups, particularly against smaller defensive backs who struggle to contain physical receivers like Tillman.
Cleveland fans will undoubtedly be excited to see the potential of this young receiver unfold over the course of the season. Tillman’s presence could be a game-changer for the Browns, who are hungry to return to the playoffs and build on the momentum of last year’s improved performance.
The Tennessee Legacy Continues
For VFL fans, Tillman’s rise to the NFL is a proud moment. He becomes the latest in a long line of Tennessee Volunteers to make an impact in the pros. His success adds to the legacy of Tennessee football, proving once again that the program produces top-tier talent capable of thriving in the NFL.
Tillman’s commitment to excellence on and off the field will be something that fans in Cleveland and Knoxville will continue to follow closely. As he begins his NFL journey with the Cleveland Browns, he remains a shining example of the hard work and dedication that led him from Tennessee to becoming a starter in the NFL.
Conclusion
As Cedric Tillman embarks on his rookie season with the Cleveland Browns, there’s no doubt that fans on both sides of the Tennessee-Ohio divide are eagerly watching his every move. His journey from the University of Tennessee to the NFL is an inspiring story of hard work, perseverance, and raw talent. Now, as a starter for the Browns, Tillman’s impact on the field will be crucial for Cleveland’s offensive growth—and for his own burgeoning legacy in the NFL.
