It looks like 2008 could be the year of the Cleveland Browns, who finished 10-6 last season. This is the fourth year that head coach Romeo Crennel and GM Phil Savage have worked together.
During that time, the Browns have secured fine free agents and signed premium draft picks.
Offense
From 2003-2006, the Browns averaged five wins per season. One of the reasons they doubled that output last season was the performance of QB Derek Anderson. Anderson, whose passes covered 3,787 yards, hit for 29 scores while tossing 19 picks. The pass catchers, which include wideout Braylon Edwards (80 REC,16 TDs) and TE Kellen Wilson (82 REC, 5 TDs), are topnotch. This season, the Browns added Pro Bowl RB Jamal Lewis (298 ATT, 1,304 YDS, 4.4 AVG, 9 TDs), giving their ground unit a true game breaker. The line allowed only 19 sacks in 2007.
Defense
Last season, the defense struggled but with the promotion of Mel Tucker from D-backs coach to coordinator, things should be better. If sophomore corners Eric Wright and Brandon McDonald bring their game up a notch that will help a questionable secondary. D’Qwell Jackson, at ILB, is back as the club’s top tackler. Jackson and OLB Kamerion Wimbley are ready to breakout. The D-line is tooled, schooled and ready to rule
Special Teams
Punt return man Joshua Cribbs averaged 30.7 yards per runback last season. Cleveland’s punters were injury prone. If healthy, they’ll be fine performers. Placekicker Phil Dawson has an accurate leg and is a cool cucumber.
Overview
Over the past three seasons, the Browns have made smart trades and draft picks, and it appears as if all of that hard work will payoff in 2008. First-place in the AFC North is within their grasp.
