Alex Wright's Growth Continues Post-Deal for the Cleveland Browns

When the Cleveland Browns signed defensive end Alex Wright to a four-year, $52 million extension in the 2025 offseason, it was a bet on potential—and six months into the season, that bet is paying off. Before the deal, Wright was a promising rotational player, contributing 5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss in 2024 as a complementary piece to Myles Garrett. This year, he’s evolved into a full-fledged starter and defensive anchor, with 9 sacks, 17 tackles for loss, and 3 forced fumbles through 13 games. His growth isn’t just statistical; it’s visible in his improved technique, decision-making, and ability to impact games in multiple ways. For the Browns, Wright’s development has turned their defensive line from a “one-man show” into a balanced unit—critical for a team clinging to playoff hopes. Alex Wright's Growth Continues Post-Deal for the Cleveland Browns explores the key areas of his improvement, the factors driving his success, and how his rise is shaping the Browns’ defensive future.

Alex Wright's Growth Continues Post-Deal for the Cleveland Browns begins with his refined pass-rushing technique, a major leap from his early NFL years. In 2024, Wright relied heavily on his physical tools—size (6-foot-6, 270 pounds) and speed—to beat offensive linemen, often struggling against more experienced tackles. This offseason, he worked with pass-rushing specialist Chuck Smith to add nuance to his game: a quick inside spin move, a swim move to evade blocks, and better hand placement to shed defenders. The results are stark: 40% of his sacks this season have come from these new moves, compared to just 10% in 2024. His most memorable play came in Week 8 against the Baltimore Ravens, where he used a spin move to get past Ravens tackle Ronnie Stanley and sack Lamar Jackson for a 10-yard loss, halting a potential game-tying drive. “Alex used to be a ‘power-only’ rusher,” Smith said. “Now he’s a complete player—he can beat you with speed, power, or technique. That’s the difference between a good player and a great one.” This versatility has made Wright a nightmare for opposing offenses, who can no longer predict his moves.

Alex Wright's Growth Continues Post-Deal for the Cleveland Browns delves into his improved run defense, a area he struggled with early in his career. In 2024, Wright often overcommitted to pass rushes, leaving gaps for running backs to exploit—he allowed 4.2 yards per carry when defending the run. This season, he’s become more disciplined, learning to balance pass-rushing aggression with run-stopping responsibility. He’s refined his ability to set the edge, using his frame to force running backs back inside, where teammates like Maliek Collins can make tackles. Through 13 games, he’s allowing just 2.8 yards per carry and has recorded 8 run-stopping tackles (tackles that result in a loss or no gain). His performance in Week 11 against the Pittsburgh Steelers was pivotal: he held Steelers running back Najee Harris to just 3 yards on 4 carries when defending the edge, helping the Browns limit Pittsburgh to 78 rushing yards total. “Run defense is about discipline and patience—traits Alex didn’t have last year,” said Browns defensive line coach Chris Kiffin. “This season, he’s focused on doing his job first, and that’s made our entire run defense better. He’s no longer a liability against the run—he’s a strength.”

Alex Wright's Growth Continues Post-Deal for the Cleveland Browns examines how Wright’s leadership has grown alongside his on-field performance—and what it means for the Cleveland Browns’ defense. Before his extension, Wright was a quiet presence in the locker room, letting veterans like Garrett and Collins take charge. This season, he’s stepped into a mentorship role, working with young defensive ends like rookie Isaiah Thomas and practice squad player Michael Bade. He stays late after practice to help them refine their technique, shares film notes, and offers advice on handling the mental side of the NFL. “Alex has become a leader without even trying,” Garrett said. “He leads by example—he’s the first one in the building, the last one to leave, and he’s always willing to help the younger guys. That’s the kind of culture we need on defense.” For the Cleveland Browns, this leadership is invaluable, especially as the team looks to rebuild and develop young talent. Wright’s ability to guide rookies not only improves their performance but also strengthens team chemistry—critical for a defense that’s dealt with injuries and inconsistency this season.

Alex Wright's Growth Continues Post-Deal for the Cleveland Browns explores how Wright’s growth has 减轻了压力 on Myles Garrett and elevated the entire Cleveland Browns’ defense. In 2024, Garrett was double-teamed on 65% of his snaps, as offenses didn’t see Wright as a threat. This season, with Wright emerging as a legitimate pass rusher, Garrett is double-teamed just 42% of the time—freeing him up to make more plays. Garrett has already recorded 12 sacks this season (on pace for a career high), and he credits Wright’s growth for the uptick. “Having Alex play at this level takes so much pressure off me,” Garrett said. “When teams have to worry about both of us, they can’t stack the box or double-team me every play. That opens up opportunities for everyone—me, the linebackers, the secondary.” For the Cleveland Browns, this dynamic has turned their defense from a “one-man show” into a balanced unit. The Browns now rank 15th in total defense (up from 21st in 2024) and 12th in sacks (up from 18th), with Wright’s growth being a key driver of this improvement. “Alex’s success isn’t just about him—it’s about the entire defense,” said defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. “He’s made us a more dangerous team, and that’s helping us win close games.”

Alex Wright's Growth Continues Post-Deal for the Cleveland Browns wraps up with the long-term implications of Wright’s growth for the Cleveland Browns’ future. By signing Wright to an extension and investing in his development, the Browns have secured a key piece of their defensive line for the next four years—providing stability as they look to build a playoff-contending team. Wright’s growth has also given the Browns flexibility in future roster decisions: they can now focus on addressing other needs (like secondary depth or offensive line talent) in the draft and free agency, rather than worrying about replacing a pass-rushing threat. General manager Andrew Berry has called Wright’s extension “one of the most important moves we’ve made in recent years,” noting that “locking up young, ascending players like Alex is how you build sustainable success in the NFL.” As the 2025 season winds down, Wright is a leading candidate for the NFL’s Most Improved Player award, and some analysts are already projecting him to be a Pro Bowler in 2026. For the Cleveland Browns, Alex Wright’s growth isn’t just a story about one player’s success—it’s a story about the team’s commitment to building a winning culture. With Wright and Garrett leading the defense, the Browns have a foundation that can compete with the best teams in the AFC for years to come.