Cleveland Browns: 5 offseason needs in 2019

3. Get some pressure up the middle

As the team’s defensive coordinator, Gregg Williams did find success. The Browns had 31 takeaways, which was second to the league-leading Chicago Bears. Willliams’ group forced 14 fumbles and intercepted 17 passes.

Forcing turnovers wasn’t an issue but getting pressure on the quarterback was. Tied for 22nd in the league, Cleveland amassed 37 total team sacks. 13.5 of those, and his team-high 29 quarterback hits, came from Pro Bowl defensive end Myles Garrett.

The rest of the defensive line didn’t do too much to help Garrett. Other than Larry Ogunjobi, the interior defensive line under performed and finding another tackle to pair beside him will benefit the entire unit. Williams set the framework last year, and new defensive coordinator Steve Wilks employs a similar 4-3 scheme.

Therefore, it really is a case of plugging and playing, and the team should consider using their first-round pick to address the need with a very defensive heavy draft. Also, free agency doesn’t have many formidable defensive tackles outside of Sheldon Richardson.

Christian Wilkins out of Clemson or Jeffery Simmons from Mississippi State are two names that may be there when the Browns are on the clock with the 17th overall pick. Other players to consider are Dre’Mont Jones from Ohio State and Wilkins college teammate Dexter Lawrence.

Like pitching in baseball, you can never have too many pass rushers in the NFL. Drafting and inserting one of those names said above would give the Browns a very talented, dynamic and athletic defensive line that can wreak havoc.