When Chansi Stuckey was traded from the New York Jets to Cleveland last month, the former Clemson wide receiver thought he would have a big role in the Browns' passing game.

Think again.

In the first three games of the season with the Jets, Stuckey had 11 receptions for 121 yards and a touchdown.

He'd started to develop into a solid No. 2 receiver for the Jets and had a good chemistry with rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez.

But the Jets were in need of a No. 1 receiver and traded Stuckey along with linebacker Jason Trusnik and a draft pick to the Jets for disgruntled Browns wide receiver Braylon Edwards.

While Stuckey wasn't happy about going to the struggling Browns, he was pleased to be reunited with head coach Eric Mangini, who had been the Jets' head coach during Stuckey's first two seasons in the NFL.

Having already played under Mangini and with a good understanding of his offensive system, Stuckey felt he would be a major contributor for the Browns.

It hasn't turned out that way.

Stuckey didn't catch a pass in his first three games with the Browns. He finally caught his first pass last week -- an 11-yard gain -- last week.

"He's been playing in a role and he'll continue to play in a role," Mangini said. "He took a little bit of a step back last week. He was part of that group that missed two days of practice. I'm looking forward to him keep carving out spots."

Stuckey said his chemistry with Browns quarterback Derek Anderson is starting to develop.

"The big thing for me is getting on the same page with Derek," Stuckey told The Cleveland Plain Dealer. "Knowing how he likes to throw the ball and getting a good feel for each other is really a key for a quarterback and wide receiver."

Stuckey said he feels more comfortable in Cleveland.

"I think Cleveland fits me a lot better than New York," Stuckey said. "I feel more at home in Cleveland. It's not the faster pace of New York."

Hill back on field

It has been a miserable season for the Seattle Seahawks.

The 2-5 Seahawks are quickly earning a reputation as one of the worst teams in the NFL.

The season hasn't been much better for linebacker Leroy Hill, a former Clemson standout.

It started out fantastic as Hill signed six-year, $38 million contract ($15.5 million guaranteed) extension in the offseason.

But Hill, who played in the season opener against St. Louis, has missed most of the season with a torn groin.

He finally got back on the field this past week against Dallas and made five tackles in the Seahawks' 38-17 loss to the Cowboys.

Hill, who has recorded 80-plus tackles in each of the last three seasons, has just seven this season.

Copyright © 1995 - 2009 Evening Post Publishing Co.