The Cleveland Browns just may be in the market for a new stud pass rusher. A lot of chatter has been circulating about premier edge rusher Myles Garrett being traded. That may or may not happen. If it does, then the Browns will need a capable replacement. If nothing ever materializes, Cleveland can use a stud bookend to complement Garrett.
RELATED: MYLES GARRETT TRADE OPTIONS
Except for Garrett’s All-World abilities, is the franchise satisfied with the production and the results from the remainder
of the pass-rushing team last year?
While GM Andrew Berry has done a terrific job with free agency in bringing in capable players for the offensive line, for the defensive line, he has signed DT Kalia Davis, plus DE A.J. Epenesa, and re-signed DE/DT Sam Kamara and DE Julian Okwara.
Epenesa is one of those bench players and should provide adequate depth. Last year with the Buffalo Bills, Epenesa played in 16 games and had two starts with 32 total tackles, 2.5 sacks, 9 QB hits, and 12 pressures, among other stats. In three seasons, he has had six sacks or more, with 24 career sacks, so he can get into the offensive backfield. But keep in mind, this is a depth signing.
Okwara is another depth player who is slated to get rotational snaps. Kamara has had a revolving door associated with the Browns. He has been on the practice squad numerous times, brought up to the main roster, signed to a reserve/futures contract, and has been released five times. He will compete for a depth position either in the DT room or play outside.
All of this means Berry has not brought in a new stud pass rusher, just bodies who can play the run and be a disruption in the offensive backfield occasionally.
Already on the roster are Alex Wright and Isaiah McGuire. Neither is known for having elite sack or pressure numbers.
Imagine if the Browns could grab another excellent pass rusher.
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EDGE Zion Young
Draft projection: Round 2
Browns pick: #39
Specifics:
Career Tackles for Loss: 28.5
Career Pass Defenses: 5
Accolades: First Team All-SEC, Senior Bowl invitee
Positives:
- Good length and long arms
- Excellent run stopper
- Active, technical hands
- Lineup flexibility to play either side
- Nasty streak
- Sheds blocks with violence
- Elite first step
- Finishes with contact
- Polished swim moves, effective rip, adequate swim move
- Excellent Senior Bowl week
Negatives:
- Has to win with technique rather than speed
- Counter move needs improvement
- Inconsistent pad level
- Needs to add weight to deal with meatier Ots
- Pending DWI arrest from December 2025
Expert Draft Site Analysis
Young has a good frame and build and has good arm length. Solid strength at the point of attack and the long arms help him get extension on blocks from offensive tackles. Good power and leg drive as a pass-rusher to occasionally collapse the pocket when bull rushing or turning speed to power. Good pass-rusher motor to get coverage sacks. Use of hands when rushing the passer is still a work in progress; his timing is off, which limits his ability to take advantage of his long arms.
