4 Reasons Cleveland Browns will have a top-five Defense in 2021

No. 1 – The Pass Rush

As important as the secondary is in the NFL, pass rush may be the most important. The quarterbacks in today’s game are so talented, and the only thing that can really rattle them is pressure. No matter what coverage you throw at them, they seem to find a hole. But making them move around and feel uncomfortable is still extremely effective.

The pairing of Myles Garrett and Olivier Vernon was supposed to be a feared tandem the last few years, but because of injuries, things just never panned out. However, the addition of Jadeveon Clowney and Takk McKinley in free agency should give the Browns one of the most feared pass rushes in the NFL.

Clowney has seen his numbers decline the last two seasons as he was asked to be the number one guy, but with Garrett as the one, and him in the two slot, he could have a huge season in 2021. Clowney will see significantly fewer double teams and is also an elite-run defender.

One thing that can’t be overlooked either is the addition of McKinley. A first-round talent that has struggled with injuries that can come in from time to time and energize this defense.

The three of these guys can all get after the passer and should really help lead this defense in 2021. At times on third and long you will likely see Woods shift Clowney inside and keep all three of these guys on the field which will be a nightmare for opposing teams.

A good pass rush can make the jobs of the entire defense that much easier. A quick pass rush means quicker decisions by an opposing quarterback which means the more aggressive pass coverage can be.

Hot take, Clowney, and Garrett will each have 10 plus sacks in 2021 and the Cleveland Browns defense will be top three in the NFL.