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Cleveland Browns 2015 Roster Analysis: Linebackers

By Eric Szczepinski

Aug 29, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA;Cleveland Browns outside linebacker Paul Kruger (99) congratulates inside linebacker Craig Robertson (53) during the second half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Cleveland Browns defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 31-7. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 29, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA;Cleveland Browns outside linebacker Paul Kruger (99) congratulates inside linebacker Craig Robertson (53) during the second half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Cleveland Browns defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 31-7. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 7, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) is sacked by Cleveland Browns outside linebacker Christian Kirksey (58) and defensive end Billy Winn (center) and defensive end Armonty Bryant (95) during the third quarter at Heinz Field. The Steelers won 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 7, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) is sacked by Cleveland Browns outside linebacker Christian Kirksey (58) and defensive end Billy Winn (center) and defensive end Armonty Bryant (95) during the third quarter at Heinz Field. The Steelers won 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

Christian Kirksey

Age: 23

Experience: 2 years

Contract Status: Free Agent 2018

In his second season out of Iowa, Kirksey saw increased playing time playing in over 50 percent of the defensive snaps his season. Kirksey has shown the ability to play strongly against the run and pass. Kirksey also displayed the ability to rush the passer registering 3.5 sacks this season.

2016 Outlook:

New defensive coordinator Ray Horton will love the athletic ability that Kirksey had to offer. Kirksey will be used heavily in base and sub packages because of his speed and playmaking potential.

B-. The former third round pick displayed ability to become a every down linebacker some weeks, but some weeks showed inconsistency and room for growth. In a new system Ray Horton will play to Kirksey’s strengths and his production should increase.. LB. Cleveland Browns. CHRISTIAN KIRKSEY

Tank Carder

Age: 27

Experience: 4 years

Contract Status: Free Agent 2016

Carder has been a valuable special team player in his four seasons with the Browns. Carder has been on the roster bubble multiple times at the end of training camp but consistently makes the roster with his high work ethic and wiliness to do whatever it takes to make the roster. Carder played in less than 9% of the defense snaps this season but made huge contributions on the special teams front.

2016 Outlook:

Despite being a free agent, it would be a likely scenario where Carder is brought in to compete for a roster spot once again. The new front office is looking to build stability and Carder has been a productive special teams player for the team. Carder also is familiar with Ray Horton and his defensive scheme.

B. Carder didn’t play enough to make enough of an impact on defense. However, this grade is for his special teams contributions as Carder is praised every season for his special teams efforts.. LB. Cleveland Browns. TANK CARDER

Next: Paul Kruger and Barkevious Mingo

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