5 Cleveland Browns who need to be re-signed for the 2023 season
By Chad Porto
Chase Winovich
Having missed most of the season due to injury, it’d be unfair to say we got a good enough look at Chase Winovich to decide whether or not he should be brought back for 2023. While he struggled in his first few games, his last four were really solid outings. Not only that, but he played very well against the run and showed some potential as a reliable player going forward.
He’s a solid run-stopping defensive end but could be an even better outside linebacker for a 3-4. If we keep the other linebackers as is, Winovich would join Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah on the outside, as they pair with Sionne Takitaki and Anthony Walker Jr. on the inside.
That’s if you just keep everyone the way it is. Personally, I’d move Owusu-Koramoah to safety, move Walker to an outside linebacking spot, and either sign or trade for a major inside linebacker or keep Walker inside and bring in another pass-rushing specialist to play opposite Myles Garrett, who would remain on the line. Either way, that leaves room for Winovich to potentially start next season.
Even if he doesn’t start, he could be a reliable third option either for defensive end or outside linebacker, whichever way the new defensive coordinator wants to go.