Cleveland Browns: Preseason Predictions
by Ryan Russell
With D.A. taking snaps from behind a beefed up offensive line that includes Joe Thomas and Eric Steinbach, the offense should be able to consistantly breakdown opponents with a solid running game, which would, in turn, open up the passing threat. Thomas, who many think should have been awarded Rookie of the Year in 2007, was the first Browns left tackle selected to the Pro Bowl since Doug Dieken in 1980.
After aquiring Donte Stallworth through free agency in the offseason, it became clear that Cleveland will be the team to beat in their division. Jamal Lewis, Kellen Winslow, Braylon Edwards, and Joe Jurevicious (after week 6) all return to make this years offense an explosive and productive one.
If the defense can hold up, and perhaps shake the title of “31st Best Defense in the NFL”, we could be in very good shape. Veteran LB’s Willie McGinest and Andra Davis are healthy, and quickly sculpting the young Kamerion Wimbley into a future pro bowl-caliber linebacker. Cornerbacks Brandon McDonald and Eric Wright (THANK YOU, PHIL SAVAGE1 ) look like they have improved from last year and could be very effective at shutting down the corners.
