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Browns’ wide receiver Richard Mullaney stands out to open NFL preseason

Dale Zanine - USA TODAY Sports

Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback DeShone Kizer may have found one of his favorite targets after Thursday’s 20-14 preseason victory over New Orleans.

Undrafted rookie Richard Mullaney had fans cheering inside FirstEnergy Stadium, as he carried a team-high 70 receiving yards on two catches.

While his first grab converted a third down, the California native hauled in a 52-yard pass in the fourth quarter to set up a rushing touchdown that tied the game at 14. Mullaney executed a double move, pushing the cornerback inside and then accelerating to beat the safety.

He was listed at fourth-string on Cleveland’s unofficial depth chart prior to the game, but performances like these should elevate Mullaney in the eyes of the coaching staff.

He made these types of plays during his time at Oregon State University (2011-14) and the University of Alabama, where he caught 38 passes for 390 yards and five scores two years ago.

Mullaney helped the Tide win its first College Football Playoff National Championship in 2015.

Stephen M. Smith is a managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine.  You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.

Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 15 years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.

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