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July is here, and we’re gearing up for Cleveland Browns training camp by shifting our attention to the defensive side of the ball for a second. DE Myles Garrett was traded away to the Los Angeles Rams last month, and losing the two-time Defensive Player of the Year creates an opportunity
for a new leader to step up.
With Garrett, he wasn’t so much a vocal leader as a guy who everyone looked toward to make a game-changing play at any given moment. Who do you view as Cleveland’s defensive leader in 2026 now? Three candidates come to mind.
In no particular order, the first is CB Denzel Ward. He’s been with the team the longest and highly regarded as one of the top cornerbacks in football still.
The second is LB Carson Schwesinger. He had a tremendous rookie season, with room to improve. We’re looking for him to make another leap in year two, but it’s also not unheard of for players to hit a sophomore slump. Is he ready to put the team on his shoulders?
The third is DE Jared Verse. He wasn’t just a throw-in for the trade; Cleveland believes they are getting a top-tier, Pro Bowl player who can make a big impact in the backfield.
Or, is there someone else who you think can take on the leader-of-the-defense role? Vote in the survey below, and let us know in the comments!
