Cleveland Browns: 53 man roster prediction midway through the preseason

CLEVELAND, OH - AUGUST 17: Carlos Hyde #34 of the Cleveland Browns runs the ball in the second quarter of a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills at FirstEnergy Stadium on August 17, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - AUGUST 17: Carlos Hyde #34 of the Cleveland Browns runs the ball in the second quarter of a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills at FirstEnergy Stadium on August 17, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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Cleveland Browns
(Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

Defensive Line (9): Myles Garrett, Larry Ogunjobi, Trevon Coley, Emmanuel Ogbah, Chris Smith, Chad Thomas, Carl Nassib, Caleb Brantley, Jamie Meder

Their depth at linebacker lets the Browns go a little thinner here. Genard Avery has been used near the line of scrimmage and could offer a third-down pass rushing option. That allows defensive coordinator Gregg Williams some flexibility. Some of the ends can slide inside and Avery can help on the edges.

As far as their base goes, this unit can be pretty good if they play up to their potential. Myles Garrett is an absolute stud and will be the leader of the entire defense. He should have his name mentioned among the sack leaders in the NFL this season.

Must Read. Hyde’s performance cements him as starter. light

The other starting end is Emmanuel Ogbah, who has been a solid all-around end in his short career. Ogbah is stout against the run but also can provide some good pass rush help for Garrett. Carl Nassib and rookie Chad Thomas make the team, but Chris Smith should be their best pass rushing end coming off the bench.

The interior looks good with Larry Ogunjobi and Trevon Coley, but their depth has been an issue in the preseason. Coley has yet to play and Caleb Brantley has been battling injuries as well. Jamie Meder is a capable player and could be relied on heavily if health issues continue.