The Cleveland Browns’ defensive ends have been one of the most prominent groups in the NFL this offseason, thanks to the trade of All-Pro Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams in early June. The fact that the Browns received Pro Bowler Jared Verse in return as part of the deal has made them two of the most noteworthy figures around the league.
While Garrett looks to have solidified the Rams as Super Bowl favorites, Verse has brought a new energy and leadership to the Browns’ defensive line. But that does not mean he is the only player making an impression for Cleveland.
Overlooked Browns defender Isaiah McGuire made a strong case on Day 11 of training camp, particularly creating havoc against the run.
“Monday was an impressive performance from the defensive end room against the run game, most notably from DE Isaiah McGuire. McGuire penetrated the backfield from the edge to blow up a run play for a likely tackle for loss during the fourth 11-on-11 period of practice. Within a couple plays, McGuire was in the backfield to shut down another run. In the 11-on-11 red zone period, McGuire made a similar play to stuff another Sanders designed run play towards the middle of the field,” Brian D’Aguanno wrote.
Verse and defensive end Alex Wright also were noticeable in Cleveland’s run defense. It continues a training camp trend in which the unit is well ahead of the Browns’ offense, dominating it at times while it tries to sort out issues along its own line.
It is an encouraging sign that the Browns can remain an elite defense with Garrett no longer in town. It also may show that it will have enough depth in the front four, after looking for help there recently.
Defensive end Jadaveon Clowney was in for a visit, but the veteran decided to sign with the Houston Texans. Cleveland also brought in UFL player Ron Stone Jr. for a workout.
This is a crucial year for McGuire, who, as a fourth-round pick from the 2023 NFL Draft, is entering the final year of his rookie contract and can become a free agent after the season. Having turned 25 years old last month, he could be seen as another valuable young contributor to Cleveland’s defense if he can continue to improve on career numbers of 5.5 sacks, 72 combined tackles, 18 tackles for loss and 17 quarterback hits in his 37 career games, which include 12 starts.
If he can carry over performances like his practice on Monday to the regular season, he will be an important part of the Cleveland defense this year.
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