Browns Lock Up Main Piece of Linebacking Core
The Browns linebacking core is one of the many questions for the team as preseason rolls on. The season had many highs and lows last year, one high being the defense.
As good as they were, they had a monumental letdown in their playoff game against the Houston Texans. The Texans got whatever they wanted on offense, and big plays were at their disposal all over the field.
With some new additions and a recent contract extension for the top linebacker, here are some news and notes for the linebacking core with preseason game two coming this weekend.
Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah Inks Extension
The first name when talking about the linebacking core of the Browns is Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. The man they call JOK, just inked a new extension earlier this week. The deal adds three years and up to $39 million with $25 million guaranteed.
JOK highlighted that it’s more than the years on the deal and money, but more so the impact he can have on the team. The 52nd pick in the 2021 draft, he has been one of the better players not taken on day one.
Last season, he played in 16 games and made 101 total tackles including 72 solo tackles. He added three and a half sacks, one forced fumble, and two interceptions. He made plays all across the field for the Orange and brown and was named to the Pro Bowl.
The starting will linebacker is a familiar face in a room that has seen a lot of change as of late. Here are some other names and storylines to watch for when talking about the linebacking core.
New Names and Injuries for the Linebacking Core
The Browns’ linebacking core following JOK includes potential starters in Devin Bush and Jordan Hicks. Bush signed as an unrestricted free agent in March and was an elite rookie in 2019.
Hicks was signed right around the same time as an unrestricted free agent and has 100 tackles or more in each of the past five seasons. Both players have made impact plays for their teams since entering the league.
Other names and likely backups include Tony Fields II, Mohamoud Diabate, and Nathaniel Watson. Jordan Hicks and Tony Fields II both have missed some time with minor injuries as of late during preseason activities.
On the bright side, defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz’s attack-style defense looks to be improved. He said he likes the depth at the position, and thinks they can have success in that level of the defense.
Hicks added that it is one of the most athletic groups he has been on. Emphasizing that he likes the energy, chippiness, and aggressive style the group possesses and plays with.
With a handful of veteran leaders and a rookie in Watson, the group is filling out nicely behind JOK as the season rapidly approaches. Minor improvements to an already stellar defense could lead to a deeper run this season.
With the new contract extension, rookie picks, and veteran presences for the linebacking core, Browns fans have room for optimism for many years to come.
