Browns defense was great in man coverage in ‘22, should see more under Jim Schwartz

It may become a talking point that goes from being under-discussed to over-discussed but the transition from DC Joe Woods to DC Jim Schwartz could be the second biggest thing for the Cleveland Browns in 2023. Improvement from QB Deshaun Watson will be the most important.

Under Woods, the Browns defense rarely seemed in the right place, often were in coverage that didn’t make sense and undervalued the importance of the interior of the defensive line. With cornerbacks in Denzel Ward, Greg Newsome II and Martin Emerson that thrive in physical, man coverage, Woods played zone too often.

We’ve already seen the change in focus in personnel with an overhaul of the majority of the defensive line. If Schwartz’s only other change is to bring more man coverage, last year’s success tells us Cleveland’s defense could be top tier quickly:

It is hard to overstate how silly it sounds to say that Woods had the Browns defense in zone coverage about half the time despite being 24th in zone coverage and second in man defense. Obviously, most fans would love to see more blitzing but, with the pass rushers GM Andrew Berry has brought in and a more stout interior, pressure should not be a problem.

Thankfully, we also have data from the last time Schwartz was a defensive coordinator, with the Philadelphia Eagles, and his history fits well with the players he has in the secondary:

If Schwartz can use his players to their strength, Cleveland’s defense should take a big leap forward. Adding all the talent to the defensive line will also help that jump.

Given the improvements in the personnel and the expected improvement in the scheme, a top 10-level defense (in most/all metrics) seems realistic.

Are you surprised by the 2022 data? What are your expectations for the ‘23 defense?