With Deshaun Watson out for 11 games this season, the Browns’ defense needs to step up.
The Browns’ pass defense could be very good this season with Greg Newsome possibly taking the next step, and their pass rush can be very good with Myles Garrett and Jadeveon Clowney coming off the edges.
The Browns Defense Has to be Ready With Watson Out
In a press conference, Myles Garrett made it known that the defense has to step up to give the team a chance this season since Watson is out.
“I think it’s an opportunity. I think it’s a challenge. I feel like us as a defense, we have to look forward to taking on that task. Obviously, he’s a very dynamic player and we might miss his presence on offense. But that’s an opportunity for us to step up to the plate and be a very dominant defense, regardless of what the offense does.
Garrett also said that it would be the job of the defense to set the tone in the game if they want to keep their momentum.
“I feel like as a defense, you have to make those stands. You have to take the ball away. You’re always giving energy to the other two teams on the field — which is special teams and offense — showing that you can stand up and keep points off the board. So it’s always a matter of momentum. I think we have the best chance of doing that.”
Cleveland’s defense last year was relatively poor. It got better near the end of the season, but at the start of the season, it was bad. Especially against the Patriots, where they lost by the score of 45-7.
Hopefully, their defense can play well this season. If they want to give Jacoby Brissett a chance they have to perform well.