Cleveland Browns Preview 2021

NFLNFL Preview 2021AFC Preview 2021AFC North Preview 2021AFCAFC NorthCleveland Browns

Sep 4

Our Cleveland Browns preview 2021 notes that if this team can show improvement on both sides of the ball, they will make the postseason as they did last year. In the 2020 regular season, Cleveland went 11-5, earning a wildcard berth. In the playoffs, the Browns beat the Steelers 48-37 in the first round. However, they lost in the divisional game, as the Chiefs took them down 22-17. The 2021 edition of the Browns brings one of the more competitive offenses in the NFL to the field. Although there are questions on defense, overall, this side of the ball should keep them in the game.

Browns Offense

QB Baker Mayfield (486 ATT, 305 COMP, 3,563 YDs, 26 TDs, 8 INTs) has learned how to play his position rather quickly. Plus, the dependable Mayfield has not missed a start since his rookie season when he replaced Tyrod Taylor in the third game of the 2018 season. The Cleveland offensive line is one of the best in the league.

Wideout Jarvis Landry (72 REC, 840 YDs, 11.7 AVG, 3 TDs) and tight end Austin Hooper (46 REC, 435 YDs, 9.5 AVG, 4 TDs) return as the team’s number one and two receivers. WR Odell Beckham Jr. could be a contributor if he can come back from knee surgery. Third-round draft pick Anthony Schwartz has plenty of speed and could develop into an important route runner. The premium rushing duo of Nick Chubb (190 ATT, 1,067 YDs, 5.6 AVG, 12 TDs) and Kareem Hunt (198 ATT, 841 YDs, 4.3 AVG, 6 TDs) are back. They will eat up yards and score.

Cleveland Browns Preview – Defense

Despite having a solid offense, the Browns defense struggled in 2020, allowing 26.2 PPP (21st), 358.4 total YPG (17th), and 247.6 passing yards per game (22nd). They were ninth versus the rush, allowing 110.8 YPG. Our Cleveland Browns preview 2021 observes that end Myles Garrett, who topped the team with 12 sacks, is the leader of the D. On the other end, Jadeveon Clowney ably puts pressure on QBs.

It’s hoped that rookies Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah and Tony Fields II will help upgrade the linebacking unit. Subsequently, veteran Malcolm Smith (72 TKLs) will offer leadership and stability. Finally, a big question is can second-year linebacker Jacob Phillips continue improving his game? However, even if he can, this group is thin. The secondary welcomes two former Rams, free safety John Johnson III and cornerback Troy Hill, as upgrades. Rookie corner Greg Newsome II could be a difference maker.

Cleveland Browns Special Teams

In two seasons, placekicker Chase McLaughlin has played for six different NFL teams. McLaughlin replaces Cody Parker who struggled in 2020. His career numbers are 38/39 on extra points and a 79.3 percent success rate on field goals. Punter Jamie Gillan offers accuracy and a fine hang time. However, his yardage won’t win any rewards. Long snapper Charley Hughlett, a seven-year vet, is dependable. Receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones doubles as the primary return man.