The Cleveland Browns defense has been a revelation in the 2023 NFL season, transforming from a liability to a league-leading force. A key factor in their success has been a ferocious pass rush, currently ranked No. 1 by PFF with a 90.5 grade.
Spearheading this dominant unit is Myles Garrett, the top-graded edge defender in the league with a remarkable 93.4 overall grade and a 95.0 pass-rushing grade. Za’Darius Smith, acquired from the Minnesota Vikings, further strengthens the pass rush, ranking 33rd overall and 15th in pass-rushing grade.
The interior defensive line, featuring Dalvin Tomlinson, Shelby Harris, Maurice Hurst, and Jordan Elliott, provides a formidable presence, ranking 22nd, 13th, 53rd, and 101st respectively among interior defenders according to PFF. This combination creates arguably the most disruptive defensive front in the NFL.
However, the pursuit of a championship-caliber defense never ceases. Despite Garrett already accumulating 7.5 of the team’s 19 sacks, adding another impactful pass rusher could elevate the Browns to new heights. Brad Spielberger of PFF suggests a potential solution: acquiring Denico Autry from the Tennessee Titans.
Spielberger highlights Autry’s previous success under Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz during their time together in Tennessee. In 2021 and 2022, Autry recorded career-highs in pressures, sacks, and pass-rush grades under Schwartz’s tutelage. This familiarity with the scheme makes Autry an ideal fit for Cleveland’s defensive system.
“Autry reunites with Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz…Autry racked up 61 quarterback pressures, 11 sacks and a 69.7 pass-rush grade in 2021 — all career highs,” Spielberger notes. He further emphasizes Autry’s consistency, highlighting his six consecutive seasons with at least 550 snaps and 30 quarterback pressures.
A proposed trade scenario involves the Browns sending a 2024 sixth-round pick (via the Baltimore Ravens) and a 2025 fourth-round pick to the Titans in exchange for Autry and a 2025 fifth-round pick. This relatively low cost for a proven veteran on an expiring contract makes the trade a potentially valuable move for the Browns.
The Titans, facing challenges including Ryan Tannehill’s Week 8 absence and the recent trade of Kevin Byard, might be inclined to make a deal. This presents a prime opportunity for the Browns to capitalize and solidify their pass rush for a playoff push.
Autry’s experience in Schwartz’s system would ensure a seamless transition, allowing him to contribute immediately. His proven track record of success under Schwartz further strengthens the argument for acquiring the veteran defensive end. The potential addition of Autry could be the final piece to the puzzle, transforming the Browns’ already formidable defense into an unstoppable force.
