After starting off 6-3 in the 2014 season, the Browns went on a 5-game skid putting themselves out of the NFL playoff picture. While this ended up being a typical season for the Browns, the good half of last year's season provided hope for a brighter tomorrow at FirstEnergy Stadium. The only question remaining is whether or not the Browns can build from the momentum of last season.
QB: As of now, the starter of the Browns is Josh Mccown. The 36 year old quarterback will use his veteran experience in order to guide the Browns. With Mccown being named the starter for now, this will both take pressure off of Manziel and allow him to learn how to become a better NFL quarterback.
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| Manziel throwing passes during training camp. |
HB: Last year, the Browns had a duel-back scheme with the running game: Isaiah Crowell and Terrance West. Last year, the Browns ranked 17th in rushing. In order to increase that ranking and add some explosion to their offense, the Browns drafted Duke Johnson. This should add another element to the offense.
WR: Ranking 20th in passing , the Browns look to find a way to improve. This off-season, they were able to sign former Dolphin receiver Brian Hartline. When healthy and thrown to alot, Brian Hartline can do alot of damage to opposing teams. This off season, the Browns also picked up former Chiefs receiver Dwyane Bowe. Between these two vets, the Browns should improve in this category.
Offense: The offense should be improved with the additions that were made this past off-season. As long as the chemistry develops and the players stay healthy, the Browns should see the improvement.
DL: The Browns' defense ranked dead last in the NFL last season in rushing. After drafting Danny Shelton, the Browns finally have a nose tackle for the present and the future. The Browns have also added defensive end Randy Starks. Add that with Desmond Bryant , and will have a solid defensive line.
LB: In a 3-4 scheme, the linebacking core is vital. They must be able to cover and fill the gaps during run plays. Led by Karlos Dansby and Craig Robertson, the linebacking core must improve on continuity.
DB: One of the more underrated secondaries in the league, the Browns rank top 10 in the league in pass defense. Many acknowledge Joe Harden as one of the premier corners in the league, and he deserves it. Behind him is tackling machine Donte Whitner, and ballhawk Tashun Gipson. Gipson and Haden combined for 9 interceptions last season. This season, the Browns added depth in the corner position, signing former Packer Tramon Williams.
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| Rod Winsor and Joe Haden (via Erik Drost) |