​The Cleveland Browns are poised to take a significant step back on defense this season without Myles Garrett, according to an expert close to the team. This season was always going to bring substantial changes for Cleveland. After six years at the helm, the Browns ultimately fired Kevin Stefanski and eventually replaced him with former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken. The era change was accelerated when the team unexpectedly traded Garrett last month, sending a jolt through the defense.
In the deal with the Los Angeles Rams, Cleveland acquired Jared Verse plus a package that includes a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick, and a 2029 third-round pick. Verse, a two-time Pro Bowler in his own right, represents a strong addition to the defense. Yet, on a Wednesday appearance on 97.1 The Fan’s T-Bone and Tyvis, Browns fans and football expert Tyvis Powell explained three reasons the defense could face a rough season ahead.
First, he highlighted the impact on the defensive line. Garrett’s presence previously ensured the line rarely faced double teams, but with him gone, the responsibility could shift to multiple teammates. The result is a broader distribution of the pressure, which could complicate blocking schemes and require adjustments across the front.
Second, unpredictable double teams could disrupt the Browns’ linebackers. Opposing offenses might execute more frequent middle-avenue double teams, driving pressure toward the second level and forcing linebackers to fight off blocks more often than they did with Garrett anchoring the front.
Third, Garrett’s departure will also influence the secondary. Garrett’s relentless pressure often forced offenses to release the ball quickly, typically within three to four seconds. With him no longer forcing hurried throws, quarterbacks may have more time to exploit coverages downfield, including longer developing routes and more opportunities for double moves.
Powell noted that the cornerbacks and safeties would need to cover longer, more intricate routes as a result. He pointed to offseason addition Tyson Campbell, a cornerback who has occasionally been vulnerable to double moves, as someone who could be tested by more complex routes and deeper throws.
Fans anticipated that the Browns would take a hit defensively after dealing Garrett, and the specifics Powell outlined could pose real challenges next season. The defense could weather the storm only if Cleveland can assemble a robust pass rush through a by-committee approach in 2026, along with cohesive play from the secondary and improved line play. As the team navigates this transition, the balance between developing young talent and maintaining pressure on opposing quarterbacks will be critical to how the defense performs in the upcoming season.