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Cleveland Browns: Five positions to fix in 2016

By Murray Alexander

Aug 20, 2015; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) walks through the tunnel to the Redskins
Aug 20, 2015; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) walks through the tunnel to the Redskins /
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Nov 1, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Seattle Seahawks outside linebacker Bruce Irvin (51) sacks Dallas Cowboys quarterback Matt Cassel (16) during the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 1, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Seattle Seahawks outside linebacker Bruce Irvin (51) sacks Dallas Cowboys quarterback Matt Cassel (16) during the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

Another position group that disappointed for the Browns in 2015 were the edge rushers as they failed to provide the Browns with any consistent pressure. Although much of this issue may have been down to the scheme and playcalling, the Browns have struggled just as much to find an elite pass rusher as they have to find a quarterback.

Since 1999, the Browns have only had three players register double-digit sacks in a single season: Jamir Miller in 2001, Kamerion Wimbley in 2006 and Paul Kruger in 2014.

Following his big year in 2014, Kruger had 2.5 sacks in 2015. Whether or not he has been underused and incorrectly utilized, Barkevious Mingo is yet to live up to the potential of being the No. 6 overall selection in the 2013 NFL Draft.

Nate Orchard made a few nice plays as a rookie, but mostly struggled along with the rest of the group. Armonty Bryant was second on the team with 5.5 sacks, but was recently indicted on felony drug possession charges, leaving his future in doubt.

Free Agent Options

Two pass rushers that may interest the Browns are Olivier Vernon and Bruce Irvin. Vernon had a relative breakout this year in the absence of Cameron Wake for the Miami Dolphins and will be looking for a payday. He may get it in Miami since they have recently freed up cap space through a number of moves. Irvin has said he is willing to take a hometown discount to stay with Seattle but it would be surprising if he did not test the market. The Seahawks declined to pick up the fifth-year option on his rookie contract at $7.8m, so they may value him at less than that number.

Related: Cleveland Browns 2015 Roster Analysis: Linebackers

Draft Options

Former Buckeye Noah Spence has been generating a lot of interest following impressing at the Senior Bowl. The Eastern Kentucky pass rusher could be an early option if character issues check out. He displays speed, body control and hand use as a rusher and should be an early impact player.

A cheaper version could be Maryland’s Yannick Ngakoue. He is not very strong against the run, but can be a disruptive rusher when he uses his hands consistently and has the ability and athleticism to bend the edge.

Next: Tight End

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