The Cleveland Browns managed to secure 11 victories last season despite facing unprecedented instability at the quarterback position. Throughout 2023, they cycled through five different starting quarterbacks before ultimately settling on Joe Flacco late in the year.
Despite inconsistent quarterback play and the absence of star running back Nick Chubb for stretches, Cleveland not only made the playoffs but also thrived in the highly competitive AFC North division.
The backbone of the Browns’ success last season was undoubtedly their defense, which ranked first in the entire NFL. This defensive prowess has led many to predict that Cleveland will once again contend for a playoff berth in the upcoming 2024 season.
With such a dominant defensive performance, one might naturally expect the Browns’ defense to be ranked at the very top of the league. However, according to Anthony DiBona of Pro Football Network, Cleveland’s defense enters training camp ranked second in the NFL, just behind the New York Jets.
Being ranked second is still a significant accolade, particularly given the fierce competition among top defenses in the league. Yet, considering the Browns feature Myles Garrett, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, and a lineup filled with playmakers at every defensive level, one could argue they deserve the top spot.
The New York Jets, who ranked third defensively in 2023, actually allowed fewer points per game (20.9) than the Browns (21.3), showcasing their formidable defensive capabilities. However, in terms of yards allowed per game, Cleveland was the best in the NFL, surrendering only 270.2 yards per game, significantly ahead of the next closest team, the Kansas City Chiefs, who allowed 289.8 yards per game (with New York allowing 292.3).
Both the Browns and the Jets are expected to maintain strong defensive units going into the 2024 season. The true test of supremacy between these top defenses will unfold on the field come fall.