The once-feared Cleveland Browns defense that was ranked No. 1 in the league last season has been anything but this year.
The once-feared Cleveland Browns defense that was ranked No. 1 in the league last season has been anything but this year. Showing vulnerability and holes up and down the roster, the unit hasn't been able to carry the anemic offense like it did last season.
Injuries have been the story of the Browns' 2024 season on both sides of the ball, and they have absolutely affected the performance this year.
But other than health, could the Browns improve the unit next season?
Bleacher Report labeled linebacker one of the biggest deficiencies of the Browns after Week 7 and indicated pursuit of the Chiefs' Nick Bolton in free agency next offseason might help.
Jim Schwartz's defense thrives when he has elite talent in the front seven. The defensive coordinator isn't a heavy blitzer and the Browns were dominant last season when they had good linebacker play. They've already worked to extend the contract of Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah but they could be looking for reinforcements to the second level of the defense.
Bolton has earned a good reputation as an enforcer in the middle of the Chiefs' defense. They have a lot of players to pay so it's possible that he becomes available this offseason.
Bolton has posted 38 total tackles with six for loss and two quarterback hits to go along with two passes defended.
