Brandon Graham pulls back curtain on Browns DC Jim Schwartz
By Randy Gurzi
Brandon Graham spent five seasons working with Jim Schwartz and took some time to discuss what the new Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator can do for Myles Garrett
When the Cleveland Browns were looking to replace Joe Woods, the feeling was that they needed someone with experience coaching defenses in the NFL. They found that in Jim Schwartz, who has been a long-time coordinator and even had experience as the head coach for the Detroit Lions.
That stint wasn’t great but he rebounded nicely by spending five seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he helped them win Super Bowl LII.
One starter from that defense was recently asked about Schwartz and what his addition will mean for Myles Garrett and he couldn’t say enough good things about the coach.
Brandon Graham, who has been with the Eagles since 2010, is a free agent this offseason and has had plenty of success in the league. However, he says he’s had his most success under Schwartz, saying that even goes back to the Senior Bowl when the current Cleveland DC helped him win the Senior Bowl MVP.
Graham also said that Schwartz is going to do all he can to help Myles Garrett excel, and will ensure he gets more one-on-one matchups.
"“His track record will speak for itself. But he’s going to come in and he wants a smart team and that’s what I love, and Myles is definitely going to benefit from it because he definitely wants Myles to get sacks, and he’ll help Myles get as many one on ones as he can, trust him.” — Graham"
Garrett is already among the best pass-rushers in the NFL but the Browns knew he could be even more dangerous with a coach such as Schwartz.
Throughout his career, Schwartz has helped defenders reach their full potential and if he’s able to get Garrett more favorable matchups on the line, that could lead to No. 95 finally bringing home an NFL Defensive Player of the Year award.
As nice as that would be, the real hope is that Schwartz can also elevate those around Garrett, thus improving the entire defense. Based on how much praise former players are giving him, that feels like a safe bet.
