Defensive Depth Proves Crucial in Season for the Cleveland Browns

In the NFL, a team’s title aspirations often hinge on more than just star power—it depends on the depth that steps up when starters go down. For the Cleveland Browns this season, that truth has never been more evident. Their defensive unit, already anchored by Pro Bowl talents like Myles Garrett and Denzel Ward, has leaned heavily on its reserves to navigate a wave of injuries, from Maliek Collins’ season-ending ACL tear to Grant Delpit’s four-game absence with a hamstring issue. Time and again, backup players have stepped into critical roles, preserving the Browns’ defensive momentum and keeping the team in the playoff hunt. Defensive Depth Proves Crucial in Season for the Cleveland Browns explores the specific moments this depth shined, the players who emerged as unsung heroes, and why it’s become the backbone of the team’s success.

The first test of the Browns’ defensive depth came in Week 5, when starting defensive tackle Maliek Collins exited a game against the Indianapolis Colts with a knee sprain (a precursor to his later season-ending injury). With Collins sidelined, backup Jordan Elliott was thrust into a larger role—and he delivered immediately. Elliott recorded six tackles, one sack, and a forced fumble, helping the Browns hold the Colts to just 17 points and secure a 24-17 win. His performance wasn’t a fluke: over the next three weeks, Elliott started in place of Collins, tallying 15 tackles and two more sacks while filling the run-stopping void left by the veteran. “Jordan didn’t just fill in—he elevated his game,” said defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. “That’s the mark of good depth: guys who are ready when their number is called.” The Browns faced another test in Week 8, when safety Grant Delpit was injured against the Baltimore Ravens. Backup Ronnie Harrison Jr. stepped in, intercepting a Lamar Jackson pass in the end zone to seal a 31-27 victory. These moments weren’t outliers—they were proof that the Browns’ defensive depth wasn’t just a luxury, but a necessity. Defensive Depth Proves Crucial in Season for the Cleveland Browns emphasizes that these early injuries could have derailed the season, but the reserves turned them into opportunities.

A closer look at the Browns’ defensive depth chart reveals a mix of veterans and young talent that has kept the unit consistent. At defensive end, behind Garrett and Jadeveon Clowney, third-year player Alex Wright has emerged as a reliable pass-rusher, recording 3.5 sacks and eight quarterback pressures in limited snaps. Wright’s ability to spell Garrett during rest periods has kept the star defensive end fresh late in games—critical in a Week 10 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, where Garrett sacked Kenny Pickett twice in the fourth quarter to secure a 20-13 victory. At linebacker, rookie Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah has split time with veteran Anthony Walker Jr., bringing speed and versatility to the position. Owusu-Koramoah’s interception in Week 12 against the Kansas City Chiefs helped the Browns stay within striking distance of the defending Super Bowl champions, even in a narrow loss. The secondary, too, has benefited from depth: cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. has filled in for Ward when the Pro Bowler was sidelined with a shoulder injury, holding opposing wide receivers to just 45 yards per game in those starts. “We don’t have ‘starters’ and ‘backups’—we have a 53-man roster that’s ready to play,” Schwartz said. “That mindset is what makes our depth work.” Defensive Depth Proves Crucial in Season for the Cleveland Browns highlights that this depth isn’t just about replacing players—it’s about maintaining the unit’s identity and performance.

For the Cleveland Browns, building this defensive depth wasn’t an accident—it was a deliberate strategy by general manager Andrew Berry and the front office. Over the past three offseasons, the Browns have invested in both free agency and the draft to shore up reserve spots: signing veterans like Harrison and Walker to one-year deals, and drafting young talent like Wright and Owusu-Koramoah to develop behind starters. The team has also prioritized position flexibility, with players like Elliott able to line up at multiple defensive tackle spots and Harrison capable of playing both safety and nickel corner. This versatility has allowed Schwartz to adjust his scheme without sacrificing performance when injuries occur. “We spend a lot of time scouting and drafting players who can contribute in multiple roles,” Berry said. “Injuries are inevitable in the NFL, so you have to plan for them.” The Cleveland Browns’ commitment to depth was evident in training camp, where backups received significant reps with the first-team defense—a move that helped them adjust quickly when called upon during the season. Defensive Depth Proves Crucial in Season for the Cleveland Browns shows that the Cleveland Browns’ foresight has paid off, turning potential setbacks into strengths.

The impact of the Cleveland Browns’ defensive depth extends beyond individual games—it has kept the team in the playoff hunt in a competitive AFC North. Through 13 weeks, the Browns rank 10th in the NFL in total defense, allowing just 324 yards per game, and 8th in scoring defense, giving up 20.1 points per game. These numbers are even more impressive when considering the team has lost key starters for extended periods: Collins (out for the season), Delpit (four games), and Ward (two games). Without the depth to replace these players, the Browns’ defense could have collapsed, dooming their playoff chances. Instead, the unit has remained steady, with reserves stepping up to make key plays in critical moments. “Our depth has kept us in games we might have lost otherwise,” head coach Kevin Stefanski said. “When you have guys who are ready to contribute, it gives you confidence that you can win no matter who’s on the field.” The Cleveland Browns’ defensive depth has also earned respect around the league, with opposing coaches noting the challenge of facing a team that doesn’t drop off when backups enter the game. Defensive Depth Proves Crucial in Season for the Cleveland Browns underscores that the Cleveland Browns’ playoff aspirations are directly tied to their ability to maintain this depth through the final stretch of the season.

Looking ahead to the final four games of the season and a potential playoff run, the Cleveland Browns’ defensive depth will remain a key factor. With Collins out for the year, the team will rely on Elliott and rookie Siaki Ika to anchor the defensive line. At safety, Delpit’s return has strengthened the secondary, but Harrison’s continued contributions will be critical in nickel packages. The Browns also face tough matchups against the Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens—teams with high-powered offenses that will test every layer of the defense. For the reserves, this means staying ready, even if they’re not in the starting lineup each week. “The playoffs are where depth really matters,” Garrett said. “You need every guy on the roster to be locked in, because one play can change everything.” For the Browns, the season has already proven that defensive depth isn’t just crucial—it’s the difference between a good team and a playoff-caliber one. Defensive Depth Proves Crucial in Season for the Cleveland Browns concludes that as the Cleveland Browns push for a postseason spot, their defensive depth will remain their most valuable asset—a testament to the team’s planning, player development, and commitment to winning. In the NFL, stars win games, but depth wins seasons—and the Browns are living proof.