NFL 2015: Ranking each defense from 32-1

9. Cleveland Browns

The Browns don’t have much of an offense, so the defense must shoulder the load if the team is going to make a run at the postseason. Luckily for Cleveland, this defense has the ability at all three levels to do exactly that. The Browns added to an already talented defense in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft with the selection of nose tackle Danny Shelton.

With Shelton existing as the anchor of Cleveland’s defense, the Browns should be able to stop the run. Behind Shelton are inside linebackers Craig Robertson and Karlos Dansby in the 3-4. Dansby is getting up there in age but continues to be a steadying force in the middle. On the outside are Paul Kruger and rookie Nate Orchard. Kruger is good for double-digit sacks, drawing attention away from the young pup.

The secondary is where the best players are for the Browns. Joe Haden is arguably the best corner in the game, proving he was worth the first-round investment and then some. Haden has plenty of support on the back line from safety Tashaun Gipson, who made his first Pro Bowl in 2014. Between the two, the secondary has the makings of something special.

Next: 8. Houston Texans