Cleveland Browns 2017 Season Preview: Offensive & Defensive Line

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE


**PREVIOUS**
The Coaching Staff
The Running Backs


The 2017 Cleveland Browns' success will be because of how both of their lines play. The Browns spent most of their off-season addressing the Offensive line in free agency and the Defensive line during the draft.

On the offensive side, the Browns signed former Bengal Kevin Zeitler to play right guard and former Packer J.C. Tretter. The Browns made Zeitler the highest-paid guard in NFL history with a five year contract worth of $60 Million and then the Browns signed Tretter for three years worth about $15 Million. Lost in all of that though the Browns signed their own players, giving left guard Joel Bitonio to a five year extension. The Browns offensive identity this season is to be a ground and pound type football team. Hue Jackson wasn't able to run the ball as much as he would have liked to last season because of a number of reasons. Which is why the Browns are willing to spend almost $50 Million this season on their offensive line.

Four out of five Starting Linemen spots are filled: Joe Thomas (obviously), Bitonio, Tretter, and Zeitler. The only offensive line battle during the preseason is at right tackle, which involves, former first round pick in 2015, Cam Erving and last year's third round pick Shon Coleman. And going into the first preseason game, Coleman is listed as the starter and seems to be the favorite to win the job.

Outside of the starting five the Browns have have a lot of versatility on the offensive line. Cam Erving has played every o-line position during his football career. John Greco has been the starting right guard for the past five seasons. Greco has also shown an ability to play center if need be. The Browns also have Spencer Drango who played and started a number of games last season in place of Bitonio. And during the draft the Browns traded up for Rod Johnson, a left tackle out of Florida State. If anything, Johnson might become a practice squad, stash and then develop for a year or so.

Offensive Line Outlook: They will definitely be improved from last season. "IF" everyone stays healthy they could possibly be one of the best offensive line in the NFL. And if rookie quarterback Deshone Kizer starts, this offensive line shouldn't give Hue Jackson and company anything to be worried about.

The Browns defensive line might be the deepest part of the team. With the change to a 4-3 defense the Browns drafted a number of linemen this past April, headlined by the number one overall pick Myles Garrett. Garrett is the prototypical right defensive end. He will be attacking the quarterback's blind side and go one-on-one against the opposing team's left tackle. By doing that it will keep him fresh for passing rushing situations since the majority of the time teams run to right side of their offensive line. Garrett has shown during training camp he's a monster. Seeing him up close is kind of crazy. The guy is a physical freak and the Browns made the right choice taking him first in the draft.

Opposite of Garrett will be Emmanuel Ogbah, the Browns second round pick from last season. His rookie season was a tale of two halves. The first half of the season he struggled with his pass rush and during pass coverage as a 3-4 outside linebacker. But then he was switched to defensive end and that's where he finally excelled. This year he is going back to his college position as a defensive end in a 4-3 defense. The starting defensive tackles will be, former first round pick from 2015, Danny Shelton and Desmond Bryant. Shelton might have been the most improved player in 2016. It also looks like he slimmed down this off-season in order to play defensive tackle in the 4-3 defense. Bryant missed the 2016 season with a torn pectoral. In his three seasons in Cleveland, Bryant has started all 41 games he's played in. He's also the elder statesman on the Browns defensive line at 31 years old.

This is were the Browns defensive line depths shows. First, guys who are most likely going to make this team. Carl Nassib, who showed some flashes during his rookie season while playing with a broken hand. Rookies Larry Ogunjobi and Caleb Brantley. Ogunjobi was drafted in the third round and Brantley in the sixth. But the reason Brantley fell to the sixth round wasn't because of play, it was because of an alleged off-field incident that has already been cleared. Brantley was projected to be a top 50 pick in the draft, so its unlikely the Browns will cut him because of the value they got on him. Cam Johnson is another guy who seems to be a lock for this team as a pass rusher. In 12 games last season (nine starts) he recorded three sacks and two forced fumbles. And the last potential lock for this team is "The Pierogi Prince of Parma" Jamie Meder. Yes, Valley Forge's and Ashland's own is a lock to be on this team. Meder should transition into a solid defensive tackle in the 4-3. But his value isn't just on defense but special teams too. Meder blocked a field goal in the Browns' only win last season against the then San Diego Chargers.

Unfortunately, with all those guys as potential locks it doesn't leave much room for guys like Nate Orchard and Xavier Cooper. Both were part of the 2015 draft. Nate Orchard was a second round pick, but in his first two seasons he's battled injuries and playing as a 3-4 outside linebacker. He's in the same situation as Ogbah but might not get the benefit of the doubt because he was drafted by the previous regime.

Defensive Line Outlook: The defensive line is kind of hard to predict. Do they have the talent? Yes. But they are extremely young. And the success of a D-Line goes hand-in-hand with the success of the defensive backs and vise-versa. So if the line plays well, then overall the defense will be pretty good. And with Gregg Williams at the helm, its hard to see them not playing well for 16 games.

Krunch Time With Katelin: Five Stories and Thoughts from the 2016 Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

2016 was tough year for the Browns. A number of different quarterbacks, a ton of injuries, and the lack of wins resulting in the number one overall pick in the upcoming draft. We knew this past season was going to be rough and the start of a tear-down rebuild, but not many expected the Browns to end up 1-15 at seasons end. With 1-15 there aren't a lot of stories to tell but here are five stories that will help recap this 2016 season.

5. Let's start with the number of quarterbacks this past season. Not counting Terrelle Pryor and Duke Johnson who threw passes this season, the Browns had five different quarterbacks lineup under center for them. Cody Kessler, Josh McCown, and Robert Griffin III started this past season with Kevin Hogan and Charlie Whitehurst taking snaps in relief of Cody Kessler. The quarterback problems started week one when RGIII broke a bone in his shoulder. Then, in week two, McCown ended up breaking his collar bone which sidelined him for a month and a half. Cody Kessler didn't play terrible for a rookie quarterback but he didn't do enough to keep the job for the entire season. RGIII ended up started the last four weeks and didn't help solidify anything for the 2017 season.

4. Jamie Collins, one of the best linebackers in the NFL, got traded from the New England Patriots to Cleveland. The Browns gave up a third round pick for his services. After the Browns traded for Collins it was weird to see on the field. Everyone could tell how good he was and at some points he seemed frustrated with the lack of talent around him. It was also weird to hear the speculation of why Collins was traded out of New England. Whether it was locker room stuff or him being a free agent in 2017...it will hopefully help the Browns going forward.

3. Even though the year was tough a number of players stepped up and made a giant leap. Guys like Christian Kirksey, Jamar Taylor, Danny Shelton and Isaiah Crowell improved immensely because of the opportunity given. Danny Shelton played like a top tier nose tackle. He was constantly disrupting the flow of the opposing offensive line even if statistically the Browns defense didn't play well. Christian Kirksey ranked 6th in total tackles with 143. The past two years he was spelling Karlos Dansby but this year he was all over and was a three down player. He improved on his run defense and has always been a solid in pass coverage. Jamar Taylor was traded to Cleveland from Miami for a handful of spots...in the seventh round of the 2016 draft.

Taylor was a former second round pick who seemed to be a bust for Miami. For his growth this past season the Browns ended up rewarding him with a 3yr/$15 million extension. And finally Isaiah Crowell...who ended up 48 rushing yards short of 1000 for the season. The First few weeks of the season Crowell was lighting it up and was in the top 5 in rushing yards. Because of injuries at offensive line Crowell's 1000 yard season dream came up short, but it was positive in the sense of how the Browns found their starting running back going forward.

2. Terrelle Pryor's transition from quarterback to wide receiver was amazing to see...even if former and opposing players criticized him for being emotional on the field. Its not that people didn't think he could do it, he's a freak athlete, but if he was going to become selfish and become a "diva" on and off the field. While off the field some took their shots at him on the field he played extremely well. 77 catches 1007 yards and four touchdowns in his first full season at receiver is pretty dang good. Hell fans wanted the Browns to sign Pryor to an extension after his crazy game in Miami where he caught eight passes for 144 yards, ran for 21 yards and a touchdown...and threw the ball for 35 yards on 3/5 passing. It will be interesting to see if Pryor has a future in the Browns and Orange but even if he doesn't he was one of (if not the main reason) people still tuned in on Sundays to watch the Browns.

1. The Browns only winning one game this season has to be the number one story. Whether it was speculation Hue Jackson and company were going to get fired at the end of the season...which turned out to be kinda true. Or the number of odd ways the Browns found themselves on the short end of the win column. Like when The Browns stormed to a 20-2 lead against the Ravens and ended up losing 25-20 because of a blocked PAT that was returned for a touchdown and a missed field goal. (and lets not forget about the stupid flag on Terrelle Pryor when he went to give the official the ball) Or when Cody Parkey missed three field goals in one game including a potential game winner, And the Duke Johnson fumble that he obviously recovered but the lady official completely messed up calling a Redskins recovery when Johnson had the ball five yards behind her. And that all happened in consecutive weeks...And the 0-16 parade which divided Browns fans on many social media platforms. Heck, it ended up having one of Cleveland's top radio personalities threatening to run over people who were participating in the parade.(I guess anything for ratings). But All in all the Browns won a game and ten's of thousands of dollars were donated to the Cleveland Food Bank because of the fan funded 0-16 parade and the contributions from the Cleveland Browns and others.

This season was a trip. Remembering all these stories and seeing how social media was during this headache of a season was something to remember...if people didn't pay that close of attention because of the Indians playoff success or the Ohio State University during their thing on Saturday's. But the "try-out year" as I coined in my season preview was a success. I think the Browns have a good idea of were their weaknesses are and now have the tools to fix this team the correct way. And that starts with making smart signing during free agency with the large amount of cap room they have and the number one overall pick in April's draft.  

Browns Preview 12.30.16: Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (1-15) Cleveland Browns travel to Pittsburgh to take on the (10-5) Steelers. This is going to be a weird game for a few reasons. First off, the Steelers are expected to sit Ben Roethlisberger, Le'Veon Bell, and Antonio Brown this week since they already clinched the third seed in the AFC playoff standings. On the other hand if the Browns lose this week, they will clinch the 1st overall pick for the first time since 2000.


Browns Offense vs Steelers Defense

It sounds like Robert Griffin III will start this week, since he was cleared to be taken out of Concussion protocol. If Griffin doesn't start, Cody Kessler will start in place of him. Another a few other shifts on the offensive line. Jonathan Cooper was released this week and Alvin Bailey was activated off of the suspension list and will start this week. Cam Erving will shift over to right tackle in place of Austin Pasztor and either Anthony Fabiano or Gabe Ikard will start at center this week.

The game plan this week should be the same as the past few weeks with Griffin at quarterback. Use Griffin's legs to set up the zone-read running game for Isaiah Crowell. The Browns should run the ball a lot to the right to test Cam Erving at right tackle. It will be interesting to see if the Browns active Darius Jackson this week. Jackson was claimed a few weeks ago from Dallas and has yet to be activated for a game.

The passing game should be the same also. Take some shots down field to keep the defense honest, but overall just take what the defense gives Griffin. Corey Coleman should get a lot of targets since Terrelle Pryor is still banged up. Duke Johnson should get his normal touches out of the backfield in the check down game.


Browns Defense vs Steelers Offense

Landry Jones will be starting this week for the Steelers. He has a career record of 1-2. And the one win was against the Browns last year when he got hurt and Big Ben replaced him. DeAngelo Williams will start and get the bulk of the carries with Bell out.

The Steelers should play conservatively. They don't want anyone to get hurt this game, whether its a backup or a starting offensive lineman. So heavy running, winning the time of possession, and limiting turnovers is going to be their game plan for this week,

The Browns will need to force a turnover or two to be able to pull out this game. And to do that they need to get pressure on Jones. Jamar Taylor should get multiple opportunities to make a play this.  On the run defense side, Shelton needs to set the tone at the line of scrimmage since DeAngelo Williams will get the start and many carries.


Five Guys to Watch

Cam Erving: Cam's is getting his first start at right tackle and it sounds like he could be the right tackle in 2017.

Robert Griffin III: This could be his last start in a Browns uniform. The Browns will need to make a decision about him this off-season and depending how things go, Griffin could be out of the NFL.

Isaiah Crowell: It will be interesting to see how the running game will play with a new look offensive line. Crowell is 200 yards away from 1000 for the season. Yes it seems unlikely but hey...its something to watch out for.

Emmanual Ogbah: Ogbah will need to get to the quarterback this week. Hopefully Ogbah can close out this year on a high note. He's played really well since moving to the defensive line.

Danny Shelton: The Steelers are going to run the ball with Williams a lot this week. Shelton is an easy pick this week. He needs to set the line of scrimmage and can't let the Steelers running game get into a rhythm.


Injury Report
Weather
Betting Line: Pittsburgh -6


Prediction: 24-17 Steelers

Don't worry Browns fans, they clinch the number one overall pick and draft talk can begin next week. The only good thing about this week 17 is that no changes should be made on "Black Monday". The Browns didn't go 1-15, aren't firing coaches, and clinched the number one overall pick...I'd say that a fairly successful "try-out" year.

Browns Preview 12.16.16: Cleveland Browns @ Buffalo Bills

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The 0-13 Cleveland Browns travel to Buffalo to take on the 6-7 Bills. Both teams lost last week to AFC North opponents. The Browns lost 23-10 against the Bengals, which was Robert Griffin III first game back since week one of the season. And the Bills lost 27-20 against the Steelers, where Le'Veon Bell ran for 236 yards and three touchdowns.

Browns Offense vs Bills Defense

The Browns should run the ball a ton this week and should limit the deep shots down field. Isaiah Crowell ran for 113 yards last week on only 10 carries. The Browns should give Crowell more carries and continue to run the read option with Griffin. Using the read-option opened up the inside run game for Crowell and it also kept the defense honest while trying to get into the backfield. The Browns should run more this week because of the weather for this game. The temps will be cold, but per weather.com Buffalo will be expecting 20mph winds Sunday.

Griffin passing the ball is going to be interesting. He needs to take what the defense gives him. So not throwing the ball into double coverage down field just to take shots, but to use Gary Barnidge and the running backs to keep the offense from being in third and long. This doesn't mean Griffin shouldn't target Corey Coleman or Terrelle Pyror, but he should pick his spots then to target them.

Lastly, Griffin needs to use his legs this game, whether in the read-option (like stated above) or scrambling when plays break down. Its important for the Browns to limit the third and long situations and that falls on the hands of Griffin. i.e. 2nd and 8 and Griffin scrambles for four yards, setting up 3rd and 4.


Browns Defense vs Bills Offense

The Bills are the number one rushing team in the league and the Browns are 31st in stopping the run so it could set up a long day for the Browns defense. The only good thing about it is that the Bills are 31st in passing offense so it makes them one-dimensional. The Bills running game is headlined by LeSean McCoy who is 24 yards away from 1000 for the season. Quarterback Tyrod Taylor is also a threat in the running game. Taylor has 471 rushing yards and is averaging 6.2 yards/carry.  So the Browns will need to assign someone to be a "spy" for Taylor.

The Bills have some weapons in the passing game, including running back LeSean McCoy who is second on the team in catches. Receiver Robert Woods and tight end Charles Clay are the other weapons Taylor likes to use at times. Also former first round pick Sammy Watkins is finally healthy so his production should increase.


Five Guys to Watch

Robert Griffin III: RGIII in his second game back is probably the number one guy to watch this week. Hopefully he learns from his mistakes and just takes what the Bills give him. And lets hope he can get into some type of rhythm and not force deep shots down field constantly.

Isaiah Crowell: Since the weather is going to be terrible for this game Crowell should get more than 10 carries this week. The Browns will need to rely on a run heavy game plan which should feature Crowell.

Jonathan Cooper: Cooper started his first game for the Browns, which was also his first start since November of last year. He played really well and helped set up holes for Crowell last week. If Cooper continues to play well the Browns might have found a starting right guard going forward.

Christian Kirksey: Kirksey will be important in both the run game and the passing game. At times he should be assigned to "spy" on quarterback Tyrod Taylor, and he will be in the middle of a lot of plays considering the amount of times the Bills run the ball.

Danny Shelton: Shelton will set the tone for the run defense this week. If he can't do his job well then its going to be a long game for the Browns this week.

Injury Report
Weather Report
Betting Line:  Buffalo -10


Prediction:  27-20 Bills

I don't think the Browns will play terrible this week but the young team will fall short once again. This seems like one of those games where RGIII tries again to do too much and ends up costing the Browns. But this game should set up something positive for the Christmas Eve game against the Chargers which the Browns have a really good chance of pulling out a victory.

Browns Preview 10.28.16: New York Jets @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (0-7) Cleveland Browns host the (2-5) New York Jets on this historical weekend. First, it will mark the first time the Cavaliers, Browns, and Indians all play on the same weekend. Second, the Browns will be celebrating the 1986 Browns team. The Jets won last week against the Ravens 24-16 in a game where Geno Smith started and tore his ACL. Which means the Jets will be starting Ryan Fitzpatrick once again. The Browns lost to the Bengals 31-17 and they lost another quarterback...Cody Kessler suffered a concussion and Kevin Hogan made his NFL debut. But this week it looks like Josh McCown will return from his non-throwing shoulder injury.


Browns Offense vs Jets Defense

The Browns game plan this week should be interesting. The Browns will need to keep running the ball. The Jets are ranked second in rush defense, only giving up 75 yards per game. But with McCown starting the Browns can not give up on running the ball, even if the Browns are struggling. Isaiah Crowell is prone to break off a big run and it keeps the defensive line at bay. Also it will be interesting if Hue Jackson spells Kevin Hogan at times to run the read option and throw a few passes.

McCown and the passing game has a chance to be successful, but only if McCown can get the ball out quickly. Gary Barnidge and Duke Johnson should get a ton of targets because McCown needs to get the ball out and not take many hits. Also the quick passes will help Terrelle Pryor get the ball in space and down field just to keep the defense honest.

The most important key for this week is to set up the pass with a consistent running game. They can't expect Josh McCown to win a game for them...heck they can't expect McCown to finish the game let alone win it. But running the ball will keep the our defense off the field and it will open up the passing game in certain spots.


Browns Defense vs Jets Offense

The Browns will need to get pressure on Fitzpatrick. This year he's been extremely turnover prone throwing 11 interceptions and even throwing six of them in one game against the Chiefs. Now its not like he doesn't have any weapons to throw to, Fitzpatrick has Brandon Marshall (who leads the team in targets), Quincy Enunwa (who is leading the team in catches), and Matt Forte out of the back field. The Browns should be able to bait Fitzpatrick into some throws which they will have to take advantage of. Just because Fitzpatrick lost his job last week doesn't mean he is going to stop playing his game, which is throwing the ball into tight spaces and forcing his receivers to make the big play.

The Browns rush defense needs to improve. Last week the Browns almost gave up 300 yards on the ground to Jeremy Hill and Gio Bernard. This week they go up against Matt Forte who has been up and down this season, but is coming off of a 100 yard game last week. If the Browns can't stop the run on early downs the Jets will have a field day, because it will prevent the Browns from being aggressive on "passing downs" with the blitz.

On Defense the most important key is to stop the run and force Fitzpatrick to beat them. Fitzpatrick's confidence could be a bit low considering he did not "earn" the starting job back. This has the making of the Miami Dolphins game from earlier this year. The Browns have an unknown at quarterback and will have to rely on the running game. And the Defense will have to force the quarterback into mistake and hope the offense takes advantage of the short field.


Five Guys to Watch

Josh McCown: This choice is pretty obvious. McCown is coming off of an injury, which we don't know how it will affect his play. If McCown can limit the hits he takes the Browns have a solid shot at getting the "W" this week.

Gary Barnidge: Barnidge is McCown's favorite target so again this choice is obvious. Barnidge is a threat in all levels of the field, but I expect him to get a ton of targets but for minimal yards. And that's okay as long as McCown doesn't take unnecessary hits.

Corner Back matching up with Marshall: As of right now, who is starting at cornerback is an unknown. Joe Haden is still nursing an injury and Jamar Taylor was just put on the injury report with a hurt groin. So...who is matched up with B. Marshall is my guy to watch, because Marshall is the top target for the Jets.

Danny Shelton: Shelton is the head of the rush defense and needs to set the tone for this week. Like stated above if the Browns can't stop the run the Jets should have this game in control.

Joe Thomas: Rumors are going around saying Joe Thomas is on the trading block even though Hue Jackson said the Browns are not trading him. But this could be Joe Thomas' last game in a Browns uniform since the trading deadline is this upcoming week. But on the field he needs to anchor the pass protection to keep McCown upright and protect his blind side from taking any direct hits on his non-throwing shoulder.

Injury Report
Weather Report
Betting line: Jets -3



Prediction: Jets 31-21

The Browns will fall to (0-8)...Josh McCown will get hurt...and next week Kevin Hogan will become the 27th different starting QB since 1999. Its just one of those years for the Browns as they "Strive for Imperfection". Could they win this week? Sure but with McCown not 100%, Fitzpatrick playing "pissed off" the odds aren't in their favor. But hey "Any given Sunday...Right?" Go Tribe Go Cavs!!

Browns Preview: Cleveland Browns @ Tennessee Titans

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (0-5) Cleveland Browns travel to Nashville to take on the Tennessee Titans who are (2-3). The Browns got blown out last week against the New England Patriots 33-13.  While the Titans won in Miami verse the Dolphins 30-17. The Browns will be starting rookie quarterback Cody Kessler this week, even though he is recovering from a rib/chest injury that took him out of the game last week.


Browns Offense Vs Titans Defense

The Browns are going to continue to run the ball this week. Isaiah Crowell was the leading rusher going for 22 yards on 13 carries. Yes, he and the run game overall was terrible but the Browns had to play catch up with Charlie Whitehurst at quarterback. Also Joel Bitonio was hurt during second half and unfortunately he will be out for a few weeks. But back to this week, Crowell and Duke Johnson should be able to have success like the first four weeks. The Titans are ranked 14th in the NFL in rush defense giving up just under 100 yards per game. They are also 20th in yards per rushes with 4.2 yards per carry.

Cody Kessler will be starting at quarterback this week with either Josh McCown or rookie Kevin Hogan as the backup. The Browns might struggle in the pass game for a number of reasons. First off the Titans are ranked 9th in the NFL in passing defense (222 yards per game). They are also tied for 5th in interceptions with six on the year. The Titans are also tied for 9th in the sack category with 12, which doesn't fair well for the Browns since their offensive line is going to be lacking their left guard.

Another reason the passing game might struggle is Kessler's injury. Even though the play calling will likely be the same with "slants, quick outs, and check downs". It remains to be seen if Kessler can make those throws with the injury, and be able to take a hit while reading a defense.

How the Browns can have success is fairly simple and its the same game plan every week. Control the clock. In the games they were in, mainly against the Ravens, Dolphins, and Redskins, the Browns did a great job running the ball and keeping the opposing team's offense off the field. The other key for the Browns to have success is to NOT turn the ball over. Turnovers killed them against the Ravens and Redskins. But if they win the turn over battle the Browns might sneak out of Nashville with a win. Its going to be a tough task but from what we've seen from Hue Jackson so far, the Browns will be prepared this week.


Browns Defense vs Titans Offense

This is were the game could get a little lopsided. The Titans are really good at running the ball and the Browns aren't that good at stopping it. The Titans rushing attack is headlined by DeMarco Murray, who is second in the NFL in rushing yards with 461 yards and also has three touchdowns. But its not just Murray in the run game, Derrick Henry spells Murray at times for short yardage plays, and Quarterback Marcus Mariota has 132 rushing yards on 20 attempts and a touchdown. The Browns will need to sell out to stop the run and keep a linebacker in during passing downs to spy on Mariota.

The passing offense isn't that great. They average 209 yards through the air, which is 28th in the NFL. The Titans use DeMarco Murray as a pass catcher a ton. He leads the team in catches with 24. They also have a top tier tight end in Delanie Walker who has 16 catches for 225 yards and 2 touchdowns.    The Browns have had a tough time covering opponents tight ends this year and one of the keys of the Browns to get this win is to stop Walker. Stopping Walker will force the check down passes to Murray and force the Titans' wide receivers (Andre Johnson, Rishard Matthews, Tajae Sharpe) to beat them. Let's hope Joe Haden's injury doesn't prevent him from playing because the Browns really need him this week.


Five Guys To Watch

Isaiah Crowell: Crowell had his first bad game of the year, if he can put it behind him and ball out this game...it will really show the growth of him and this team in general.

Andrew Hawkins: The Titans will try and take away Terrelle Pryor and Gary Barnidge so Andrew Hawkins has a great opportunity to ball out. Hawkins and Kessler seem to have some chemistry going whether its in the red zone like last week, or with drag and out routes like in previous weeks.

Danny Shelton: Shelton is the nose of the defense and he will need to set the tone in the run defense. If Shelton has a bad game then the Browns don't have a chance to stop the run which will result in the Browns losing.

DeMario Davis: Davis is one of the leaders on this team and has played really well. Davis is going to be important not just in the run game, but in the pass game. Not just covering Murray or Walker but spying on Mariota which might be the most important job.

Hue Jackson: Yes the head coach is someone we should watch. The Browns do a solid job in the first half of games, but struggle during the second half. I'm going to watch out for second half adjustments by the Browns and hopefully they can get points because of them. Also, the Art Briles controversy or whatever, I''m curious to see how he handles "on field" stuff with all the "off field' surrounding him. Also Jackson is running out of winnable games and another loss could be one step closer to "losing" this team. I don't think that would happen, but starting 0-6 isn't a good look...even if its in a rebuilding year. This team needs an actual victory not a moral one.

Injury Report
Weather Report
Betting Line: Tennessee -7

Prediction: 28-24 Titans

My heart wants to pick the Browns, but my head says no. It will be a watchable game, but a late turnover by the Browns will shift momentum to the Titans. Kessler will play like he has in his first three games. And I think Crowell will have a bounce back game, but the Browns won't be able to come back from adversity in this game which will result in a loss. 0-6 sucks but we will be one week close to the end of the year and the draft in April. Also the Cavs start in two weeks, Ohio State is arguably the best team in the nation, and the Indians are in the ALCS...so don't feel bad Browns fans, stay positive!!!

#Browns Preview 1.3.16: Pittsburgh #Steelers @ Cleveland Browns

By @mrgroce

Happy New Year Browns' fans!!!! We have finally reached the final week of the season and it could not have come at a better time. For the third season in a row the Browns will be have their third string quarterback behind center. Austin Davis gets the opportunity to keep the Pittsburgh Steelers out of the playoffs. Pittsburgh needs a victory and a Jets loss to make clinch a spot in the postseason. Since 2008, the Browns and Steelers have faced off against each other five times with Pittsburgh winning every single contest. 

The Browns will be without both of their starting corner backs this week and might be forced to start Justin Gilbert and Pierre Desir against Antonio Brown and Martavis Bryant. That's gonna get ugly. The last time these two teams faced each other, Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger came off of the bench and threw for 379 yards and 3 touchdowns. Running back DeAngelo Williams was held to 54 yards on 17 carries, which was one of the best performances by the Browns' run defense this season. 

As stated earlier, Austin Davis will get his second start of the season. In his lone start against the Bengals in early December, Davis threw for  230 yards with one interception. Like the other quarterbacks before him, it's really hard to get a read on the man behind center when he doesn't have any weapons to help him win. Add Marlon Moore to the list of receivers who who will be out this week for the Browns. That could lead to more playing time for Terrelle Pryor or Dwayne Bowe, maybe. One thing to look out for is the fact that Travis Benjamin is only 87 yards short of the 1000 yard mark. 

Personally, I'll have my eyes on Cameron Erving, Danny Shelton and Nate Orchard. They are the rookies who've had the most playing time lately and I'd like to see how hard they compete in the final game that means nothing overall, but hopefully will one day in their futures as members of the Cleveland Browns. Rumors have swirled all week stating that GM Ray Farmer will be fired and coach Pettine will be retained followed by another rumor that both men will be let go after the season ends. I'm not a fan of either guy but whatever happens I don't wish for any man to lose his job. I am a fan of the Cleveland Browns though, and whatever is best for the team will hopefully get figured out by Jimmy Haslem quickly. 

What: Pittsburgh Steelers at Cleveland Browns
When: Sunday January 3, 2015 1:00 PM
Where: FirstEnergy Stadium Cleveland, Ohio
TV/Radio: CBS/ 850 ESPN Cleveland, 92.3 The Fan, 98.5 WNCX

On The Mark 5.4.15: Cleveland #Browns 2015 #NFLDraft Review

By @MarkW2112

The Cleveland Browns came away with 12 new players during the 2015 NFL Draft this past week.  Each player filled a need for the team and, in many ways, upgraded those positions drastically.  Here is the final list of new players: 

Danny Shelton, DT, Washington
1st Round, #12 pick overall 
Danny came in to the draft as the second best DT next to Leonard Williams.  At 339 pounds, he is exactly what the Browns need to try and plug up their run defense which was, yet again, horrific last year after Phil Taylor went down with injuries.  The Browns will see if he does live up to the Halata Ngata comparisons. 

Cameron Erving, C, Florida State 
1st Round, #19 pick overall:  
The Browns went in to meltdown mode on the offensive side of the ball last year when Alex Mack went down with a broken leg.  Which is why they drafted the versatile center who played left tackle in 2013.  Projected to play right guard in 2015, he should have no problems transitioning to center if/when Mack opts out of his contract after this season. 

Nate Orchard, OLB, Utah 
2nd round, #51 overall  
Orchard led the nation in sacks with 18.5 for the Utes.  He was projected to play in a 3-4 defense as an OLB pass rusher which should be a perfect fit for him to take over as Jabaal Sheard's replacement.  He'll join fellow Ute alumni Paul Krueger as the Browns look for more sacks in the coming season. 

Duke Johnson, RB, Miami.  
3rd round, #77 overall 
After losing out on getting Chris Conley from Georgia when Kansas City traded in front of them, the Browns selected Johnson, who's excellent vision and good hands will give the Browns a complimentary weapon in the backfield if not their new starting RB in 2015.  He left Miami as a their all time leader rusher with an average of 6.69 YPC during his 3 years.  He will also see time as a return man on special teams if not their new punt returner. 

Xavier Cooper, DT, Washington State 
3rd round, #97 overall 
The Browns traded picks to the New England Patriots to move back up in to the third round and select Cooper who was a possible pick for the Cincinnati Bengals at #99.  Cooper brings in the potential to be a disruptive pass rusher as he had 11 sacks last season.  He's a former TE and basketball player who has quick feet and excellent hand technique.  He should fit in perfectly with what the Browns are looking for as a rotational defensive end. 

Ibraheim Campbell, S, Northwestern 
4th round, #115 overall 
Looking to upgrade the safety position as well as an heir apparent to Donte Whitner, the Browns took Campbell as their first fourth round pick.  He will work well on special teams as his tackling as improved over time at Northwestern.  Projected in the 7th round, the Browns may have reached but obviously see potential in what some have called a "poor mans Landon Collins". 

Vince Mayle, WR, Washington State 
4th round, #123 overall 
Mayle has only been a receiver for 2 years but had 2 games where he had 252 receiving yards last year.  While Combine 40 time wasn't impressive, he appears to have a surprisingly quick burst once he gets the ball.  He will come in projected as the fourth or fifth receiver option but should see work as a kick returner on special teams his first year. 

Charles Gaines, CB, Louisville 
6th round, #189 overall 
For Mike Pettine, you can never have enough cornerbacks.  Which is why Gaines was chosen as the first of three 6th round picks for the Browns.  Gaines was a projected third round pick so the Browns got good value from him.  He could contribute to special teams as well as a possible nickelback if Justin Gilbert continues to struggle. 

Malcolm Johnson, TE, Mississippi St.   
6th round, #195 overall 
Johnson will more than likely be used as an H back/fullback more than a true tight end.  Known for his good hands and a vocal leader with MSST, he has the potential to bring some blocking in to create holes for the running backs and another special team specialist. 

Randall Telfer, TE, USC 
6th round, #198 overall 
Telfer only had 197 yards receiving but looks to be more of a blocking tight end.   

Hayes Pullard, ILB, USC 
7th round, 219 overall 
Going back to USC, the Browns took Pullard to bring in as a backup ILB.  Had some success but doesn't appear to be anything more than special teams depth at this time. 

Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, CB, Oregon 
7th round, 241 overall 
In what could be the steal of the draft, the Browns selected Ekpre-Olomu with their final selection.  If not for a severe knee injury he could have been a first round pick.  He is a tenacious player that could be a starter, possibly at safety, if he is able to come back from the knee injury.  Defintely a low risk/high reward pick for the Browns. 

My take:  The Browns went out and drafted football players.  Nothing flashy, just guys who were solid in their college careers.  They may have drafted themselves at least 3-4 players that could be starters this year.  Obviously, the quarterback position wasn't addressed but it appears the Browns are all in with McCown and Manziel in 2015.  But they more than addressed their defensive efficiencies, strengthened their offensive line and grabbed a wide receiver.  The Browns had an excellent approach by drafting  immediate starters in the first 2 rounds as well as thinking of the future. 

Draft grade: B+