Browns Unofficial Depth Chart: Week 18 โ Predicting the Starting Lineup
The final week of the regular season is here, and for the Cleveland Browns, it's a chance to build momentum heading into the playoffs. While the official depth chart remains shrouded in a bit of mystery, we'll dive into an unofficial Browns depth chart for Week 18, speculating on potential lineup choices based on recent performance, injury reports, and coaching tendencies. This analysis considers both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. Remember, this is speculation based on available information and should not be taken as definitive.
Offensive Depth Chart Speculation
The Browns' offense has shown flashes of brilliance this season, but consistency has been an issue. Let's examine the key positions:
Quarterback
- Starter: Deshaun Watson โ Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Watson remains the undisputed starter. His performance will be crucial in determining the Browns' playoff success.
- Backup: Joshua Dobbs โ Dobbs provides valuable experience and will be ready to step in if needed.
Running Back
- Starter: Nick Chubb โ The workhorse back, Chubb remains a critical part of the Browns' offensive game plan. Expect a heavy workload.
- Backup: Kareem Hunt โ Hunt offers a nice change of pace to Chubb's power running style.
- Third String: Jerome Ford โ Ford provides depth and will be involved on special teams.
Wide Receiver
- Starter: Amari Cooper โ A consistent target for Watson, Cooper's experience and reliability are essential.
- Starter: Donovan Peoples-Jones โ Peoples-Jones has emerged as a key playmaker, showcasing his speed and route running.
- Slot: David Bell โ Bell's development will be closely watched.
- Fourth Receiver: Anthony Schwartz - Schwartz offers speed and special teams contributions.
Tight End
- Starter: David Njoku โ A significant contributor in the passing game, Njoku's athleticism makes him a valuable asset.
- Backup: Harrison Bryant โ Bryant provides a reliable target and excels in blocking situations.
Offensive Line
Predicting the offensive line is always challenging due to injuries and rotations. However, based on recent trends, we anticipate the following:
- Left Tackle: Jedrick Wills Jr.
- Left Guard: Joel Bitonio
- Center: Ethan Pocic
- Right Guard: Wyatt Teller
- Right Tackle: Jack Conklin
Defensive Depth Chart Speculation
The Browns' defense has the potential to be a dominant force. Here's a look at their potential lineup for Week 18:
Defensive Line
- Defensive End: Myles Garrett โ The star pass rusher, Garrett is the cornerstone of the Browns' defense.
- Defensive End: Ogbonnia Okoronkwo โ Okoronkwo provides a consistent pass rush threat.
- Defensive Tackle: Dalvin Tomlinson โ Tomlinson is a solid run stopper in the middle.
- Defensive Tackle: Taven Bryan โ Bryan will contribute to both run defense and pass rush.
Linebacker
- Middle Linebacker: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah โ Owusu-Koramoah is a dynamic playmaker from the linebacker position.
- Outside Linebacker: Anthony Walker Jr. โ Walker provides experience and leadership.
- Outside Linebacker: Jacob Phillips โ Phillips plays a crucial part in run support.
Secondary
- Cornerback: Denzel Ward โ A lockdown corner, Ward is crucial in limiting opposing wide receivers.
- Cornerback: Greedy Williams โ Williams provides valuable experience and solid coverage.
- Safety: John Johnson III โ Johnson is a leader in the secondary, providing experience and playmaking ability.
- Safety: Grant Delpit โ Delpit's versatility and tackling abilities make him an essential part of the secondary.
Special Teams
The special teams unit will continue to be a key factor, with the kickers, punters, and returners playing crucial roles.
Important Note: This is an unofficial depth chart projection. Injuries, coaching decisions, and game-time adjustments could significantly alter the actual starting lineup. Keep an eye on the official announcements and pre-game reports for the most up-to-date information. The Browns' Week 18 matchup will be a pivotal game, and this depth chart provides a possible glimpse of the team's strategy. Remember to check the latest news and updates closer to game time for the most accurate information.