Browns: 5 defensive takeaways from Week 2 loss

Browns linebackers struggle as Ravens tight ends thrive

In Week 1, Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Jesse James posted six receptions for 41 yards and two touchdowns against the Browns defense. Baltimore Ravens tight end Benjamin Watson burned the Browns as well in Week 2 posting eight receptions for 98 receiving yards.

This could be a combination of things, but more than likely the fact this is a relatively new team. It will take a few games for the defense to come together as they wait for Myles Garrett to return. Both James and Watson are solid players on good football teams. Although, it’s concerning the Browns are allowing numerous significant plays to average tight ends in consecutive weeks.

Watson, who was a member of the Cleveland Browns earlier in his career, is 36 at this point in his career and was all over the field Sunday. The linebackers must do a better job containing the middle of the field and containing opposing tight ends.

Jamie Collins, Joe Schobert and Christian Kirksey all had quiet games, too quiet to be effective. All three of the starting linebackers rated poorly according to PFF.

Collins and Kirksey are expected to be the leaders of this defensive unit. Joe Flacco was able to do as he pleased in the middle of the field and converted first downs to points throughout the day.

There is no doubt the Browns defense showed they can eventually be a premier defense in the NFL. However, this simply will be a dream and will only become reality once the leaders begin to consistently step up.