Player to watch No. 1: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah
The Browns have been strategically building their defense to be dangerous at all three levels. Everyone knows that Myles Garrett is the headliner of the unit, and most NFL fans recognize that Denzel Ward is among the best cover corners in the game. But the name Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah is not yet part of the National Football League’s vernacular.
That should change after the 2022 season.
Owusu-Koramoah has a dynamically unique skillset for a weak side linebacker. JOK’s agility and explosivity make him a nightmare for offensive linemen. His ability to make himself unblockable at the second level by simply not giving linemen a strike zone is showing the league that there is another way to play the linebacker position.
What separates JOK from other ultra-athletic linebackers is his ability to quickly transition from diagnosing what the opposing offense is doing to attacking the play. The term ‘see ball get ball’ might sound simple but in the NFL, it is the furthest thing from. However, JOK is that rare one in a million athlete that can actually blend his instincts and his athleticism together.
The Jets don’t employ an overly complex offensive system. For JOK that means, slightly less diagnosing but even more attacking. Week two should provide the type of game that Owusu-Koramoah could start to make some national noise with his play. This Browns defense is primed to create some turnovers, and when they come, they usually come in bunches.
Expect to hear JOK’s name early and often on Sunday, and do not be surprised to see him wind up in the endzone with a ball in his possession. So, if you are not familiar, get familiar. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah will be a household name sooner rather than later.