Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns

As the Cleveland Browns look to strengthen their defensive line and build a more consistent pass rush, third-year edge rusher Alex Wright has emerged as a key piece of the team’s long-term plans. After a rookie season spent learning the ropes and a sophomore year of incremental progress, Wright has shown noticeable growth in 2024—earning more snaps, making critical plays, and gaining the trust of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. For a Browns team that relies on Myles Garrett and Jadeveon Clowney at the edge but needs depth to stay competitive, Wright’s steady rise isn’t just a boost for the present; it’s a solution to the team’s future needs. Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns isn’t just about one player’s development; it’s about how the Browns are nurturing young talent to create a sustainable, dominant defense.

Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns first became clear in the team’s 2024 training camp, where Wright turned heads with his improved technique and strength. At 6’7” and 270 pounds, Wright has always had the physical tools to succeed, but he struggled early in his career with consistency—often getting pushed back by offensive tackles or missing opportunities to sack the quarterback. This offseason, he worked with defensive line coach Chris Kiffin to refine his hand placement and develop a more diverse pass-rush arsenal, adding a spin move and a swim move to his previously one-dimensional approach. “Alex put in the work this summer—he was here every day, working on the little things that separate good players from great ones,” Kiffin said. The results were immediate: Wright recorded three sacks and four quarterback hits in the preseason, earning him a spot in the Browns’ rotational edge-rush group. Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns because this training camp breakthrough proved he was ready to contribute beyond special teams and garbage-time snaps, forcing the coaching staff to give him more opportunities.

Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns has been on full display during the regular season, as his snap count has increased from 22% in 2023 to 45% in 2024. Schwartz has used Wright in a variety of roles—lining him up as a traditional edge rusher, a stand-up linebacker in nickel packages, and even as a defensive tackle in short-yardage situations—to exploit his versatility. His most memorable performance came in Week 8 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he recorded two sacks, five tackles, and a forced fumble that led to a Browns touchdown. “Alex was everywhere that game—he was beating tackles off the edge, plugging run gaps, and making plays that changed the momentum,” Schwartz said after the game. Wright’s ability to contribute in both pass-rushing and run-stopping situations has made him a valuable asset, especially on third downs, where he’s helped the Browns rank 10th in the NFL in third-down defense. Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns because his increased snap count and impactful plays have shown he’s no longer a “project” but a reliable contributor who can step up when Garrett or Clowney need rest.

Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns has also been shaped by the team’s need to prepare for the future, as both Clowney and backup edge rusher Ogbonnia Okoronkwo are set to become free agents after the 2024 season. The Browns have been hesitant to commit long-term to aging edge rushers, and Wright’s development has given them a cost-effective alternative to signing a high-priced free agent. General manager Andrew Berry has acknowledged Wright’s importance, noting that “developing young players like Alex is a key part of our roster strategy. He’s someone we can build around for years to come, which helps us maintain flexibility under the salary cap.” The Cleveland Browns’ front office has already started discussions about a contract extension for Wright, with talks expected to heat up after the season. “We want Alex to be a Brown for a long time,” Berry said. “He’s shown he has the talent and work ethic to be a core part of our defense.” Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns because his emergence aligns with the team’s long-term cap strategy, ensuring they don’t have to overspend on edge rushers in free agency.

Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns has received high praise from his veteran teammates, who’ve helped mentor him and watched his growth firsthand. Garrett, who has taken Wright under his wing since his rookie year, has been impressed by his work ethic and humility. “Alex listens, he learns, and he works harder every day—those are the traits that make great players,” Garrett said. “I see a lot of myself in him when I was his age—someone who has the tools but just needs time to develop. It’s been fun to watch him grow.” Clowney, who is known for his tough-love approach, has also praised Wright’s progress, noting that he’s “no longer the quiet rookie who was afraid to speak up—he’s now a guy who contributes to our defensive meetings and makes suggestions about how to beat certain tackles.” The Cleveland Browns’ veteran leadership has played a key role in Wright’s development, providing him with the guidance and confidence he needed to take his game to the next level. Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns because this veteran mentorship has accelerated his growth, turning him into a player who can not only perform on the field but also contribute to the team’s locker room culture.

Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns has also had a positive impact on the team’s overall defense, as his presence has allowed Schwartz to be more aggressive with his playcalling. With Wright handling run-stopping duties in some packages, Garrett and Clowney have been free to focus on pass-rushing—leading to a 15% increase in the Browns’ sack total compared to 2023. Wright’s ability to occupy blockers has also created more opportunities for the Browns’ linebackers and secondary, as opposing offenses can’t focus all their attention on stopping Garrett. “Alex’s growth has made our entire defense better,” safety Rodney McLeod said. “When he’s playing well, it opens things up for everyone else. He’s the kind of player who makes his teammates better, and that’s invaluable.” The Cleveland Browns’ defense currently ranks 8th in the NFL in total yards allowed, a significant improvement from their 14th-ranked finish in 2023—and Wright’s contributions are a big reason why. Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns because his impact extends beyond his individual stats, making the entire defense more dominant and harder to game-plan against.

Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns is a testament to the value of patience and player development in the NFL. The Browns didn’t rush Wright into a starting role or give up on him after a slow start; instead, they invested in his growth, provided him with the resources he needed to improve, and gave him opportunities to prove himself. Now, as Wright continues to develop into a reliable edge rusher, he’s become a key part of the team’s present and future—helping the Browns compete for playoffs in 2024 while laying the groundwork for sustained success in the years to come. Whether he’s sacking quarterbacks, stopping runs, or learning from veterans, Wright’s steady rise is a story of hard work, perseverance, and the Browns’ commitment to building a winning culture. Alex Wright's Role Grows Steadily in Plans for the Cleveland Browns because he’s not just a player on the roster—he’s a symbol of the team’s ability to develop young talent and turn potential into production, which is the foundation of any successful NFL franchise.