It took just six plays in the first preseason game for Cleveland Browns rookie KC Concepcion to show why he was a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and why their offense and special teams will be completely different with him on the field. With those limited touches, Concepcion helped set up Cleveland’s only two scores in an otherwise discouraging 34-10 loss to the Chicago Bears.
First, he had a 31-yard punt return that may have gone the distance if not for a desperate tackle. It gave the Browns good field position that they were able to turn into a field goal for a 3-0 first-quarter lead.
Then, in the second quarter, his third-down reception gave the Browns a first down on the Bears’ 14-yard line. On the next play, he took a forward handoff on a sweep and used his speed and athleticism to get to the pylon for a touchdown run that resulted in a 10-point lead.
With those plays in mind, analyst Ken Carman was gushing about the rookie’s preseason debut, saying it was easy to see how Concepcion’s speed will make a big difference this season.
“This was a great start, especially for KC Concepcion. I can’t stop saying good things. He is a fireplug that was just so much fun to watch back on Saturday. Good Lord. He got that kick return, I’m like, ‘Boy, I knew he was fast. I didn’t know he was this fast. Lord Almighty, he can fly,'” Carman said.
"Ladies and gentlemen, your introduction to KC Concepcion. This was a great start…I can't stop saying good things. He is a fireplug."
🚨 @SportsBoyTony and @KenCarman on the impact of the #Browns rookie WRs https://t.co/J4ANBK5NE0 pic.twitter.com/WfM3zITYwg
— 92.3 The Fan (@923TheFan) August 17, 2026
Concepcion may not have an eye-opening 40-yard-dash time, but he displayed excellent speed and elusiveness with the ball in his hands. He showed that in all areas on Saturday, posting 72 all-purpose yards with his one long punt return, his touchdown run, and three receptions for 27 yards.
As the No. 24 overall pick in the draft, Concepcion was taken 15 spots before the Browns added wide receiver Denzel Boston in the second round. Despite their draft status, Boston overshadowed Concepcion for most of the spring workouts and into training camp and was promoted into the starting lineup leading up to the first preseason game.
However, on Saturday, Boston caught just one pass for 15 yards on two targets from quarterback Deshaun Watson. It will be interesting to see if he has a better performance with Shedeur Sanders as the starter against the Buffalo Bills this coming Saturday.
But for now, Concepcion looks to be the Browns’ top rookie wide receiver, with plenty of optimism for what’s still ahead.
NEXT: Overlooked Browns Lineman Quietly Making Case For Roster Spot
