Cleveland Browns: Josh Cribbs return is a touchdown

After losing one of the greatest Cleveland Browns in history to retirement, another has returned. Josh Cribbs’ return is nearly as exciting as his returns for Cleveland were.

The greatest kickoff return specialist in the history of the Cleveland Browns, as well as the NFL, has made an impact thus far as a special teams coach-intern. Perhaps labelling him the greatest kickoff return specialist is inaccurate, as Josh Cribbs was one of the greatest at stopping returns as well.

Cribbs remains tied with Leon Washington as the the NFL’s all-time leader in kickoff return touchdowns with eight. He also tallied an additional three via punt returns. That is quite impressive for an undrafted free agent quarterback out of Kent State University.

From my time growing up and working in and around Kent, OH, I can assure you that Kent State is likely known more for partying that football. Great players from the university are by no means unheard of, but they are not commonplace either.

Those of you that did not have the fortune to watch Cribbs play, he was at times, magical. On every non-touchdown return, he seemed a mere step away from scoring. And on every kickoff he appeared to be the first to make contact, and usually making the tackle as well. I could not find a number for the return touchdowns called back due to penalties, but I recall several. If only one had been credited Cribbs would be the sole kickoff return touchdown leader in NFL history.

He has been listed as the 11th best special teams player in NFL history by FoxSports.com. You might find his rank even higher if you ask those in the know who watched him play. Personally, I would be hard-pressed to name even one or two of equal or higher caliber. Some can claim remarkable return skills, but none as an elite gunner to boot.

It is a shame that Hall of Fame voting seems to abandon the efforts of special teams standouts, as Cribbs would certainly be in the discussion. I sincerely hope that Cribbs will find coaching to be his post-career calling and that he and the Browns organization will decide to make his position a more permanent role.

For young players looking to make a name for themselves, or simply just to make the team, Cribbs provides proof positive that the little guy can make a big impact. He also provides an expertise and track-record that none can match.

Since joining the Browns coaching staff, Cribbs has been hands-on, even developing a drill known as the Cribbs-drill. Although the details of which remain unannounced, one can logically assume that it is uniquely tuned by a master of the position and extremely beneficial for young special teamers.

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Cribbs showed pure heart and true grit as a Cleveland Brown and his return is one of the best highlights of this offseason. His time in Cleveland ended abruptly, much to the dismay of fans, and although his playing days have ended, his final return for the Cleveland Browns may indeed be his best ever.