Coming into the 2015 season, not much was expected from the Cleveland Browns, especially on offense. With 36-year-old Josh McCown at quarterback and zero threats in the receiving corps, many pundits felt the Browns would be lucky to grind out more than ten points a game. As a result, it was determined Cleveland’s defense would be the team’s saving grace.
Such a claim certainly made sense on paper. The secondary featured returning Pro Bowlers Joe Haden, Tashaun Gipson and Donte Whitner. Linebackers Karlos Dansby and Paul Kruger were coming off stellar seasons as well. Additionally, rookie nose tackle Danny Shelton was brought in to bolster the line and help improve the overall run defense.
So, yes, on paper it really seemed like the Browns had themselves a stout defense on their hands.
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