Cleveland Browns: Position battles to watch during training camp

Defensive End

The battles at the defensive end position are not at the top of the depth chart. The biggest questions will come near the bottom of the depth chart.

The Browns added two versatile players in Chris Smith and Chad Thomas this off-season. Smith has experience playing defensive end and defensive tackle. The Browns signed him to a three-year deal, likely with the plan of using him in passing situations.

Outside of pass rushing situations, Smith will be used to give Myles Garrett and Emmanuel Ogbah some snaps on the sideline. Both dealt with injuries last year, and giving them some plays off will help them stay fresh for the 4th quarter  of games and later into the season.

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Cleveland selected Thomas in the third round of this year’s draft and are hoping that his athletic traits will translate to making plays on the field. Although he will be mainly used for depth purposes this season, his presence creates a problem for two holdovers from last season’s roster.

It would be a surprise to see the Browns carry six defensive ends, especially with how much of an emphasis the team has put into having a strong secondary. That leaves Carl Nassib and Nate Orchard essentially battling for the last spot on the defensive end depth chart.

Both were great pass rushers while in college, which led to them both being early-round draft picks. But neither player have been able to translate that into the NFL. Both are going to be looking to make an impact during the preseason games to earn a spot on the roster.