BEREA, Ohio — If Trent Richardson’s performance in Browns training camp is any indication of the season, Cleveland fans will have lots to cheer about. Richardson made a strong impression on the first full-squad practice in pads on Sunday.

Richardson did some things that ordinary backs aren’t known for doing. On one play, he took a handoff from quarterback Brandon Weeden, ran around left end and jump-cut back to the inside, making tacklers miss. The running back then weaved his way through traffic and streaked to the endzone untouched. The following day, Richardson showed his versatility catching screen and dump passes and turning them up field for big gains. Plays like these are the exact reason why the Browns picked him third overall in the draft. He’s that talented.

There is fear that the team will rely heavily on the run game this season, which could wear on a rookie runner - even on a running back with a thick muscular frame such as Richardson. A lot will be placed on his shoulders. So it’s critical to get something from the passing game to balance the offense. Being the focal point on offense could create pressure.    "It's only pressure if you make it pressure," Richardson said. "I don't think we're just going to be a running team, I think we are going to be a balanced team. So we will be ready for whatever."

Richardson is an extraordinary back, and no question the top running back in this year’s draft. He’s a strong, powerful, physical runner with good size to speed ratio. His running style is reminiscent of Emmitt Smith and his versatility reminds one of LaDainian Tomlinson. He’s a rugged downhill runner but flashes some finesse at times. He’s an every-down back and the complete package.

Richardson has the support of his offensive line, which apparently has set a goal for him – 1,809 - according to one of his teammates. Hall of Fame running back Eric Dickerson set the single-season rookie rushing record for yards with 1,808 in 1983.

As it stands today, Richardson is my early candidate for Rookie of the Year.