Repeated Benchings By Browns Won’t Cripple DeShone Kizer

DeShone Kizer was supposed to be the man for the Cleveland Browns going forward, come hell or high water. Instead he’s stuck in a love-hate relationship.

For the second time this season the rookie quarterback from Notre Dame has gotten benched by his new team. The Browns announced that they would be starting Kevin Hogan moving forward. It’s not hard to see the reason behind the decision. Kizer has failed to get any consistent production out of the offense. At 0-5 the Browns need a spark otherwise they’re headed for another rock bottom season despite firm belief they should be winning more games by now.

Hue Jackson explained in a statement that the move does not alter the future plans with Kizer. It’s merely meant to get him on the sideline where he can continue the learning process without being a detriment to the team on the field. Harsh to be sure, but if Kizer can’t handle it then he was never going to be the guy for them.

Drew Brees can empathize with what Kizer is going through

This is far from the first time that a coaching staff has played hot potato with their quarterbacks. If Kizer is looking for somebody who can understand his situation, he need look no further than New Orleans Saints legend Drew Brees. Back during his days with the San Diego Chargers, he was constantly having to prove himself to former head coach Marty Schottenheimer. In fact Brees has said on a number of occasions he was benched three different times before he finally became the permanent starter.

The fact Brees went on to have the career he has is a testament to his mental fortitude and tireless work ethic. That is what will have to drive Kizer moving forward. If he’s meant to be what the Browns hope, he’ll take this benching as a learning experience. So whenever the next opportunity comes he will be ready to seize it. Smart money says it will come soon. Hogan is a smart football player but the odds of him retaining the job are slim.

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Cleveland has done nothing to shake the criticism that they have no clue how to handle the quarterback position. It will take some serious mental toughness for Kizer to change it at this point.