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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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Aug 13, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns linebacker Nate Orchard (48) gets a hand on Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) as Washington Redskins tackle Willie Smith (60) blocks during the second quarter in a preseason NFL football game at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 13, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns linebacker Nate Orchard (48) gets a hand on Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) as Washington Redskins tackle Willie Smith (60) blocks during the second quarter in a preseason NFL football game at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

Nate Orchard

Age: 23

Experience: 1 year

Contract Status: Free Agent 2019

Orchard was selected in the second round by the Browns in last April’s draft. Orchard was considered one of the top pass rushers in the 2015 draft class.

As the season progressed, Orchard grew into a starter like role in the defense and things started to click for Orchard near the end of the season. Orchard recorded three sacks on the season which all took place in the last month of the season.

Orchard struggled adjusting to becoming an every down linebacker with setting the edge in the run game and learning how to stay home against play-action and misdirection’s. As Orchard progressed it allowed him to do what he was known in college to do best and that’s rush the passer. Orchard improved steadily over the season and will be a big piece for the Browns moving forward.

2016 Outlook:

Orchard will likely enter training camp as one of the two starting outside linebackers in Horton’s defense. Orchard will look to grow from a learning experience his rookie year and develop as the Browns top pass rusher.

C. Orchard didn’t provide immediate pass rushing production like many thought and expected but improved and learned the NFL game in extended playing time as a rookie. Orchard played in 45 percent of the team’s snaps and it appeared the light was starting to click late in the season for the Browns young pass rusher.. LB. Cleveland Browns. NATE ORCHARD

Armonty Bryant

Age 25

Experience: 3 years

Contract Status: Free Agent 2017

Bryant, a seventh round selection in 2013 was having a solid year being moved to outside linebacker from defensive end. Bryant totaled 5.5 sacks and was the Browns most consistent linebacker for a majority of the season. However, Bryant was arrested on Christmas morning for gun and drug possession.

This put an end to Bryant’s 2015 season and his future with the team seems very uncertain. Bryant was indicted on felony drug possession for Adderall and oxycodone on Feb. 10 and will also likely face punishment from the NFL.

2016 Outlook:

Bryant’s career as a Brown is likely over, as the new front office wants players with no off field baggage.

F. Bryant ruined all progress on the field with poor off field judgment. Under a new front office the Browns organization doesn’t have time to deal with this incidents as the team is attempting to build a consistent winning and team culture.. LB. Cleveland Browns. ARMONTY BRYANT

Next: Scott Solomon and Cam Johnson

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