Cleveland Browns Preview: Defensive Line

August 6, 2011   ·   John Stanton   ·   Jump to comments

The change in defensive schemes from a 3-4 to a 4-3 has drastically transformed the Browns' defensive line. 
The 3-4 defense is based off the idea of having three large defensive linemen to take-up multiple blockers. This in turn allows the linebackers more freedom to blitz or get back into coverage. Dick Jauron's newly implemented 4-3 defense calls for four defensive linemen who must help stop the run and rush the quarterback.
This transition was a big reason why the Browns selected two defensive linemen with their first two picks in the NFL draft.
Also, it has become safe to assume that last year's midseason acquisition of Jayme Mitchell was because the front office knew Mangini was not likely to return as head coach. So, they did the right thing in trading a seventh-round pick for a player who they believed would fit well within the 4-3 defense.
Although the unit is considered young, the defensive line has a good chance to exceed expectations, mainly du...

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