Grading the Browns key players half-way through the season
By Chad Porto
Defense
Overall Unit: D-
There’s only one reason this isn’t an F.
DE Myles Garrett: A+
The only reason this unit isn’t an F.
DL Porter Gustin: C+
He’s had some good games but more consistency is needed.
DT Sheldon Richardson: C-
Has played great against bad teams, but has played terrible against anyone with a middle school offensive line or older.
DT Larry Ogunjobi: C
Same
DT Jordan Elliot: D-
Despite poor play from the starters, still can’t get playing time.
DE Olivier Vernon: D+
One good game does not a good season make.
DE Adrian Clayborn: D
He was supposed to be good, right?
LB Mack Wilson: C-
The biggest disappointment of the year, and the guy who was supposed to replace Joe Schobert. Hopefully, he’ll be better now that he’s healed up.
LB Malcolm Smith: F
An Andrew Berry signing.
LB B.J. Goodson: D-
Another Andrew Berry signing. This is who people thought could replace Schobert.
LB Sione Takitaki: F
When the cover linebacker can’t cover you know you’re screwed.
CB Denzel Ward: B-
Injuries and occasional sloppy play has hurt his grade but has some impressive games despite nagging issues.
CB Kevin Johnson: D-
If only he played like the famed receiver of the same name, only on defense, then maybe this defense would be better.
DB Ronnie Harrison Jr.: C+
Has only come on strong in the last few games, but as he continues to get accustomed to the defense his grade should go up.
DB Karl Joseph: F
Oakland didn’t want him back for a reason.
DB Andrew Sendejo: C
Takes too much blame for the failings of others, a sure tackler, but hasn’t made many big plays.
DB Sheldrick Redwine: D+
There’s potential here, but not much.
CB Terrance Mitchell: F
Every team loves picking on him and for obvious reasons.