Howard

Wilson

A fourth-round pick in 2017, Wilson missed his rookie season because of a fractured kneecap and last year because of a patellar tendon tear. He is still only 23, but it is possible Wilson’s career is already over after suffering knee injuries, one extremely serious, in his first two years.

It’s a crushing blow for the No. 126 overall pick of last year’s draft, who missed his entire rookie season with a fractured kneecap. Although Wilson is still only 22, he’s now looking unlikely to ever appear in an NFL game. Two lost years to knee issues is the worst possible way for any player to begin a career, but especially a fourth-rounder.

Wilson (6’1/184) turned pro after making just 16 starts in three years at Houston, tallying nine interceptions and earning first-team American Athletic Conference as a 2016 junior. Wilson struggled in the forty (4.57) and jumps in Indy, but ripped up the three-cone drill (6.68) and short shuttle (3.94) and profiles as a quick-twitch playmaker, even if NFL teams will be hesitant to line him up outside. Wilson’s short-area quickness and ball skills make him a compelling prospect.

Wilson is a middle-of-the-road athlete with playmaking traits. He’ll begin his career on special teams before perhaps getting a chance in the slot.

A fourth-round pick, Wilson was injured one day after signing his rookie deal. He’ll undergo surgery and likely miss the entire season. The patella fracture is the second major knee issue for Wilson, who missed all but three games of his sophomore year to a torn ACL.

It’s a relief for a player who previously tore his ACL at Houston, but 2017 will likely still end up a redshirt campaign. The Browns have too many young players they need to get onto the 53-man roster, and Wilson can spend 2017 stashed on the PUP list.

The No. 126 overall pick will miss at least the first six games. In all likelihood, he will be “redshirted,” missing the entire year and returning to fight for a roster spot in 2018.

Wilson missed his entire rookie year after going down at minicamp. The Browns should move him slowly given his history of knee issues. Wilson will compete for a roster spot behind E.J. Gaines, Jamar Taylor, and T.J. Carrie.