3 Defensive players who shined in Browns season opener

The Cleveland Browns went on the road and edged out the Carolina Panthers in the season opener. Here are three defensive standouts from their week one showdown.

The Cleveland Browns finally removed the 18-year-old monkey from their backs. By snatching a victory from the jaws of defeat in Charlotte, the Browns bring their almost two-decades-long winless streak in season openers to a merciful end.

Cleveland controlled the first 58 minutes and change of the contest, but then allowed the Carolina Panthers to inch ahead with a field goal deep into the fourth quarter. But just when all hope was lost, the Browns managed to get to the edge of field goal range, and their rookie kicker, Cade York made the franchise’s biggest kick since returning in 1999.

Now that the hay is in the barn, it is time to dissect the action from the opener. It was an uneven day in all three phases for the Browns. The defense was more Jekyll and Hyde than expected, but here are three players that shined in week one.

3 Defensive players who shined in Browns season opener

Defensive Standout No. 3: Martin ‘MJ’ Emerson

Welcome to the NFL, Martin Emerson. Heading into the season it was clear that Emerson had carved himself out a role in the Browns defense. The size of the role was unknown, but the rookie was undeniably going to see plenty of action.

Then, just days before the season opener, the Browns placed assumed starting cornerback Greedy Williams on the Injured Reserve list with a hamstring injury. Emerson’s role is now that of a starting cornerback opposite of Denzel Ward. Now that Emerson was officially running with the ones, how would he fare in his first true NFL action?

The moment was not too big for the rookie. Emerson finished tied for second on the team with five tackles, with four tackles being of the solo variety. The young corner seeks out contact and will not hesitate to dole out punishment when the opportunity arises. Emerson’s physicality shined in his debut, in both run support and in the passing game.

Even on the play where Emerson was flagged for pass interference, the rookie was in good position and was effectively bullying Panthers wide receiver Robbie Anderson. Although you would like to see Emerson trust his technique more in that instance, his physicality at the top of routes is going to serve him well over time.

Emerson seamlessly transitioned his play style to the professional level and is a perfect complement to Denzel Ward. The Browns appear to have added another stellar piece to their defensive back room.