The Browns hidden defensive gems

The Cleveland Browns made a lot of moves this off season, rather it was via trade or the NFL draft. Zadarius Smith received via trade from the Minnesota Vikings had more pressures than every defensive player on the Browns defense except Myles Garret. They also agreed to terms with DT Dalvin Tomlinson, DE Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, & safety Juan Thornhill. These are a few of the standout names that the Browns brought to the table to beef up this defense.

Defensive changes

Compared to the 2022 season these are major improvements. The Browns upgraded their D line which was just atrocious. 2023 Browns defense should look way better than the prior year defense. Also getting quality secondary player Juan Thornhill should help replace the toxicity of John Johnson. Not only did they strengthen their weakness, they brought in Jim Schwartz. He is a polished, championship defensive coach who could change the Browns culture on defense for the better. Now the Browns finally have a coach who wouldn’t mind moving players like Myles Garret & Zadarius Smith around on the D line to get better matchups.

Fresh set of eyes

Jim Schwartz runs a wide 9 defensive scheme which stretches the edge rusher out to a 9 technique outside of the tight ends. This can only fare well for the Browns because right now the strength of the D are the 2 edge rushers. This scheme is specifically drawn up to unleash the potential of the edge rushers. This won’t do the other teams O-line any justice. This is why to me Jim Schwartz is the biggest hidden gem on this Browns D. Clearly previous coaches couldn’t manage to put Myles in a position to win, their scheme would have him get double teamed and triple teamed while no adjustments were being made.

With Coach Schwartz defensive prowess and experience the Cleveland Browns defense should be a top 10 defense this upcoming year. We had one of the worst run stopping teams in the league last year, this year should be a different story.