BEREA -- The Cleveland Browns' defense finished No. 1 overall, in the NFL in 2023 in Jim Schwartz 's first season as defensive coordinator. However, last season, the defense dropped to 19th overall.

The Cleveland Browns have had their problems recently, but one area of the roster that's stood out is the defensive line.

BEREA -- The Cleveland Browns defense produced the Defensive Player of the Year in the 2023 season and the defense finished the season ranked No. 1 in the NFL.

Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry watches practice during NFL rookie minicamp at the Cleveland Browns training facility on Friday, May 9, 2025, in Berea, Ohio.

This sentiment captures the urgency surrounding the Browns’ defense heading into 2025. Being average — being “just a guy” — won’t cut it if Cleveland hopes to return to the playoffs.

Garrett is back in Cleveland after requesting a trade this offseason. He ultimately signed a four-year, $160 million extension to remain the face of the Browns’ defense.

The Browns will open training camp in just over a week when rookies report on July 18. The veterans report July 22, with the first full-squad practice on July 23. That's when Cleveland will begin ...

The Cleveland Browns have not done a whole lot to address their defense this offseason, which is understandable given that they entered free agency with virtually no financial wiggle room, and ...