Brandon Pierce’s 6-Game Streak of Consecutive Starts: Cleveland Browns’ Concerning Run of Defensive Struggles

• After the Browns’ streak of consecutive starts, defensive end Myles Garrett is the only player who has not been able to improve his run of tackles, while the team’s defense has struggled to find the right way to stop opponents.
• The material suggests that the early signs of new wide receiver Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion are tied to the team’s ongoing efforts to improve KC Concepcion’s performance through training camps.
• At quarterback, the Browns’ lack of stability in the play of Deshaun Watson and the inexperience of rookie Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, along with the fact that Monken may be able to change the rotation of players at the start of the preseason opener 15 snaps.

Coach Brandon Pierce says the team’s defensive play has been better than expected, even though the team has struggled to stop opponents. For that reason, he points to the team’s ability to keep the ball in play, and to improve the defensive line and the pass rush. However, he also believes that new wide receiver Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion could provide a boost in the middle of the season.

The material also notes that, at the position of safety, Grant Delpit will be able to continue the same level of play in the 2025 season. In the regular season, rookie Emmanuel Makin-Vorren produced a strong start to his career, but he still has to show consistency. It also suggests that Ronny Hickman could join the team as a restricted free agent, while veteran-pribullets Daniel Thomas may be able to help with a specialized role on special teams.

It also points out that, at defensive end, the group has been strengthened, with Myles Garrett expected to remain the key player for the unit. Jared Verse, who joined the team in the offseason, is expected to be one of the top pass rushers, while Alex Wright and Isaiah McGuire, who are expected to be starters, provide additional depth. It also notes that, despite the expectation that the team will rely on the pass rush, Jadeveon Clowney and A.J. Epenesa could still be important contributors.

Meanwhile, at wide receiver, where the Browns have a strong group of players, KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston should be able to make a significant impact. The material says Concepcion could be a key target after training camp, while the team expects Boston to contribute as well. It also notes that, on the other side, the group is still working to improve its performance and that the defense could struggle to stop the Browns’ receivers.

The material also says that, at cornerback, Denzel Ward is expected to remain the main player, while Tyler Hall is expected to be a rotational option. It also notes that Damarri Mathis, who suffered an ACL injury in 2025, is expected to return and provide depth for the unit.

At running back, Quinshon Judkins is expected to be the main option. It also suggests that the team’s wide receiver group will be able to create space for the running game, while the Browns’ defense will remain focused on stopping opponents. It also notes that Dylan Sampson, who is expected to be the third-down back, and Rocket Sanders, who is expected to take on kickoff return duties, could be important contributors.

It also says that the offensive line will be a key area for the Browns: the material suggests that the starting five includes players who are expected to be effective, while KT Leveston is expected to start at right guard and provide stability at tackle. It also notes that rookie Spencer Fano is expected to start at left tackle, but that the team will likely rely on Dawand Jones at that position. It also suggests that Elgton Jenkins is expected to remain the team’s center and provide leadership for the unit.

As for quarterback, the material says that the Browns’ early-stage offense will be built around Deshaun Watson, who is expected to be the starter, while Shedeur Sanders may be used in certain situations. It also notes that the team could limit pre-snap penalties. It also suggests that Dillon Gabriel, who is expected to take on a significant role, could also be involved in the offense. It also notes that the Browns’ offensive coordinator Todd Monken is not expected to make major changes to the offensive scheme, but that the team could adjust its approach for the preseason opener 15 snaps.

At defensive tackle, the material suggests that the group will be strengthened, with Maliek Collins expected to start at the interior and provide stability. It also notes that Mason Graham is expected to be a key contributor, while it suggests that the Browns could rely on Sam Kamara at tackle.

Tags: Sport/Football