Denzel Boston Could Seize Control of Offensive Rookie of the Year Race in Week 4
Cleveland Browns rookie receiver Denzel Boston has 9 catches for 195 yards and 2 touchdowns through three games. His 5.7 yards after catch above expectation ranks third in the NFL, and 69 of his receiving yards have come after the catch. A Week 4 matchup with Pittsburgh gives Boston a chance to strengthen his Offensive Rookie of the Year case.
Through three games, Boston has nine receptions, 195 receiving yards, and two scores. His 69 yards gained after the catch account for 35.4% of that yardage, and his 5.7 yards created after the catch beyond expectation per reception ranks third league-wide. At 6-foot-4, he wins with size and red-zone craft rather than pure speed.
In Week 3, Boston caught two of four targets, yet also figured on a late two-point conversion that put Cleveland ahead by three. The Browns face Pittsburgh on Thursday night in Week 4. For comparison, 2025 OROY Tetairoa McMillan had 216 yards on 14 catches in his first three games and did not score until Week 6.
If Boston continues producing, his rise could energize Browns fans and draw more attention to Cleveland's offense. A strong rookie campaign may boost local game-day interest, merchandise sales, and youth football participation in the region. For national audiences, his Week 4 showing against Pittsburgh could shape early OROY debates and increase prime-time viewership. These effects would likely be cultural and economic.