Dawgbeat 06/14/2007
QUANTUM LEAP EXPECTED FOR THE DEFENSE
By Eric Brown
Todd Grantham has signed a contract extension according to the OBR, for this Browns fans should be extremely excited. Grantham a rising prospect for the head coaching ranks, displays the type of fire and enthusiasm that the Cleveland Browns have seen before, reminiscent of a pretty successful ex-Cleveland Brown assistant, Bill Cowher. The defense, now beginning it's third season in the system he implemented seemingly has the parts to make a jump into the top defenses in the NFL. Along with his defensive assistant Mel Tucker, this defense has kept continuity over the past two seasons and 2007 may be the year we start to see the results.
With the off-season additions of Robaire Smith and Antwan Peek, ex-Grantham disciples, the defensive front seven may have netted two key pieces to the defensive puzzle. Smith, a solid defensive end in the 3-4 defense should not only help the team's run-stopping ability but also provide a veteran presence on and off the field for youngsters like Jvonne Parker, Shaun Smith, Ethan Kelley, etc. Smith had a solid season under Grantham's tutleage while in Houston in 2004. Smith will not be expected to rush the passer much, but to provide a big, strong body to help stop the run. Place him next to Ted Washington, and/or Shaun Smith and Orpheus Roye and instantly this defense becomes better on first and second down. The defensive lines main purpose in the 3-4 is to take up space and blockers so that the linebackers can freely make plays. Robaire Smith at 6 foot 4 and 328 pounds, Washington 6 foot 5 and 365 pounds, and Roye at 6 foot 4 and 315 pounds may be big enough to finally provide the ingredients to push this defense in the right direction.
Peek is another addition that is familiar with Grantham's defensive system and thrived in it in Houston. Peek was just beginning to "peak" (pardon the expression) when Grantham came to Cleveland in the 2005 season. In 2005 Peek recorded 6 sacks for the Texans in the system that Grantham has now implemented in Cleveland. With his presence opposite 2006 1st round pick Kamerion Wimbley, the Browns may have a pass rushing duo not seen here since Chip Banks and Clay Matthews. Add into the mix solid middle linebackers Andra Davis, Dqwell Jackson and up and comer Leon Williams (who can play inside or outside) and this unit may very well be the strength of the team. Andra Davis, who signed a lengthy contract extension after the 2005 season will have to show the ability to make plays at or behind the line of scrimmage with the improvement of the defensive line. If he does not, Williams, who showed flashes of Ray Lewis' style of play in his limited playing time in 2006, may be given a chance to unseat him. Giving this unit some veteran leadership will be Willie McGinest. McGinest, who seemed to age a bit in 2006, may benefit from the extra depth acquired in the offseason. His role may very well become a pass-rushing defensive end in passing situations, where he, Peek, and Wimbley could become a force to be reckoned with.
The secondary was decimated by injuries to Daylon McCutcheon, Gary Baxter, Brian Russell, and Leigh Bodden in 2006 and had to be pieced together each week. Still, under Mel Tucker's leadership the defensive backfield performed pretty well, especially Daven Holly, who after being cast-off by the 49ers and Bears earned a starting role and notched 5 interceptions. Jereme Perry, an undrafted free agent also logged significant playing time and earned the right to compete for a spot in 2007. Brodney Pool, 2005's second round pick, at times showed flashes of being a stellar free safety prospect and also filled in pretty well at the corner position. Sean Jones , played like an all-pro safety in some games, and in others, dropped key interceptions that could have determined the outcome. He must make those key interceptions to be considered one the league's elite. The secondary should also benefit from the return of a healthy Bodden. Many receivers consider him one of the best, yet most fans outside of Cleveland haven't even heard of him. Gary Baxter's future is still uncertain and before I consider him a key component of the defense he must prove his knees are not an issue. Although many consider his return doubtful, I will not question his heart as he has worked his tail off to make an unbelievable comeback. Consider this my personal best wishes Gary, you have fast become one of my favorite players because of what is in your heart. Others to consider for this unit are DeMario Minter whose rookie season was wiped out by injury. Minter was once considered a draft first day prospect. Eric Wright, 2007's second round pick, had it not been for a lapse in judgement in his rookie college season at USC, would have been the top cornerback taken in his draft class, he is that talented. Wright will start and have an immediate impact on the secondary. Adden for veteran presence is Kenny Wright, yet another Grantham associate. Wright could fill a role as the nickel back or a swing corner/free safety type. Wright is an excellent tackler who can really help out on third downs. Others to mention are Justin Hamilton, Mike Adams, and Brandon McDonald, who, in Romeo Crennel's eyes has showed some flashes in OTA'S.
Overall, Crennel, Grantham, and Tucker have now embarked on their third campaign together and have the talent to make this defense the foundation of this team. Defenses can set the tone for an entire game, stretches of games and ultimately a season. If this team is to compete in 2007, the defense will have to make a quantum leap and carry an offense that needs to have the opportunity to benefit from the same continuity afforded the defense.