The loss of Desmond Bryant huge for the Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns defense suffered a major blow after seeing Desmond Bryant go down with a likely season-ending injury.

Desmond Bryant is one of the Cleveland Browns most productive defenders leading the team with 6 sacks last year. Overall, that number doesn’t scream high production but Bryant also excelled at stuffing the run. Losing him is a major issue for this defense.

This injury only increases the spotlight on several young players who were already expected to play a significant role. The Browns need someone to step up and replace Bryant’s ability to generate pressure on the quarterback.

Barkevious Mingo is someone with a target on his back thanks to his inability to rush the passer. He has been a major bust, but might be given more of a leash with Bryant out of the

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lineup.They don’t play the same position which means defensive coordinator Ray Horton will need to get creative.

Rookie Carl Nassib and second-year player Xavier Cooper could open the year as the starting defensive ends rather than battle each other for the spot opposite Bryant. Cooper had a strong rookie season where he showed the ability to be disruptive.

Nassib was college football’s sack leader, but may struggle with his transition to the 5-technique position. He has a long but thin build meaning he needs to add strength bulk.

Armonty Bryant is someone who could get a look in the middle of the year after he serves his 4-game suspension. His long-term stability with the franchise is still in flux after a run in with the law last December.

The season hasn’t even started and the Browns are already dealing with the loss of a key player. This team is looking more and more like the top candidate to own the No. 1 pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.