Cleveland Browns: How much better will they be in 2017?

The Cleveland Browns added key players this offseason. Does that mean they will be better this fall? The Voice of the Fan gave his thoughts.

I know it way too early to tell but have you heard of Mr. Peabody’s way back machine? Yes, the one from the Rocky and Bulwinkle show. Let’s reverse it just a little and move a few months into the future as I take a look at the Cleveland Browns.

What is this team, with a new defensive coordinator and hopefully help on both sides of the ball going to look like? Is there going to be improvement?

Don’t get your hopes up, barring a miracle or two and a sudden finding of “the franchise quarterback” in our midst. Yet, there will be progress from that awful season last year.

Cleveland went heavy on defense first during the draft, as the Browns had two first rounders on that side of the ball. With Emmanuel Ogbah at one defensive end spot and first pick Myles Garrett on the other, Cleveland may have a better pass rush than what we’ve seen in quite awhile.

The switch to a 4-3 defense may be for the best. Lord knows the 2016 season was pretty much brutal in that area! For once things could be looking up on that side of the ball.

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There is still a ways to go and additional help needed, but the progress should show, if not right away. With the switch in scheme not only do the rookies need to know their assignments but so do the returning players.

The big question is the offense. No one can expect rookie quarterback DeShone Kizer to take the reins and bring this franchise out of the woods. Having lost Terrelle Pryor in free agency hurt Cleveland’s receiving corp, but the addition of Kenny Britt will help.

The saga of fellow wide receiver Josh Gordon just keeps going. Will he ever see the field again?

Related Story: Gordon's wait continues

With the free agent additions on the offensive line of Kevin Zeitler and J.C. Tretter, along with Joel Bitonio‘s return, the main worry is at right tackle. Will this be Cameron Erving‘s last chance?

By retaining Isaiah Crowell, the running game should be fair, if not better. I’ve seen early predictions of three to five wins.

Next: Watch Myles Garrett tear up Browns' camp

That could be pretty close with Cleveland’s schedule as the fans see improvement and the direction going in the right way. What’s your opinion?

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