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Cleveland Browns: Which defensive rookies will make the team?

By Joel W. Cade

Dec 5, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats linebacker Scooby Wright III (33) against the Oregon Ducks in the Pac-12 Championship at Levi
Dec 5, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats linebacker Scooby Wright III (33) against the Oregon Ducks in the Pac-12 Championship at Levi /
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Oct 10, 2015; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Carl Nassib (95) pressures Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Danny Cameron (18) during the fourth quarter at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Indiana 29-7. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O
Oct 10, 2015; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Carl Nassib (95) pressures Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Danny Cameron (18) during the fourth quarter at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Indiana 29-7. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O /

Brother of Syracuse standout QB and current New York Giants backup Ryan Nassib, Carl Nassib played his college ball at Penn State. Nassib was a finalist for the Burlsworth Trophy. This trophy is awarded to the player with the best career after walking on to the team. Nassib grew into his frame in college, only maturing in time for his senior season. But what a season he had, leading the nation in sacks and forced fumbles. He finished the year as an All-American. He is great story of perseverance.

Related: 5 Questions on Carl Nassib

The Browns took Nassib with the first pick of the third round. He had one standout season at Penn State leading scouts to question if he was a one-year wonder.  Nassib has all the size, speed, strength and production to merit a third-round pick. He has a motor that does not quit. He is light at 6-foot-7 and 277 pounds. He is too slow to play outside linebacker. So he will have to put on another 20 pounds to be a regular on the defensive line.

Carl Nassib has the frame, shape and desire of a five technique in Ray Horton’s defense. The five technique in Ray Horton’s defense. A five technique must have size, arm length and strength. Outside of size, Nassib has the arm length and strength to play the position. A five technique plays outside the tackle. Depending on the scheme, a five can be responsible for contain on the run or being an edge rusher. Nassib can do all those things.

Nassib will spend this season learning on the job. He will most likely backup Desmond Bryant. In that time, he will need to put on weight and refine his skill set.

Verdict: Nassib makes the team as a rotational defensive lineman who contributes on special teams.

Next: Joe Schobert

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