Cleveland Browns: Grades from loss vs. Dolphins

Linebackers: C

Much of what the defensive line did on Sunday that was positive also applies to the linebackers. Stopping the run was partially a credit to their play as well, as they prevented several runs from all five Miami running backs from becoming more devastating than they were.

The reason the linebackers get a slightly lower grade is due to their failure to manufacture pressure on Tannehill, and their slow reaction time in coverage. At times, it seemed as if the linebackers were useless, as they could never create much pressure, yet could not cover the likes of Kenny Stills, Jarvis Landry and DeVante Parker.

They made some solid plays though, very consistently helping out the run defense for the most part. Christian Kirksey made eight tackles, Demario Davis made swift decisions and Emmanuel Ogbah continued what has already been an impressive rookie campaign.

As a group, these linebackers continued to show Cleveland that they are serviceable. There is room for improvement, but at the same time, there are so many other areas on the roster in much more desperate need of upgrades. For Sunday’s game, the linebackers get a respectable “C” grade.