Mandatory minicamp begins tomorrow for the Cleveland Browns and it’ll be the start of three days of football before the team has a month off.
Earlier in the day I took a look at offensive players that should be of interest during minicamp. Now, attention turns to a few defensive players that are noteworthy.
Let’s get to it.
LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah
Prior to last season, I was of the belief that JOK would have a breakout season. The Browns finally addressing the defensive tackle room helped out immensely and the star linebacker was named to his first Pro Bowl.
Owusu-Koramoah led the NFL in tackles for a loss at linebacker and was a menace at getting to the player with the ball in their hands.
Heading into his fourth season, I believe that JOK can make an All-Pro jump. With much of the linebacker room around him, Cleveland is going to rely on him to be a star as much as it is expected. Starting things strong during these June days is important.
DT Mike Hall Jr.
Hall was the Browns’ highest draft pick and the one that is talked about the most. Hall is in a position where he won’t have to be a heavy contributor for the Browns with how the defensive tackle room has been built.
Still, that does not mean that Hall won’t be a heavy contributor for the Browns. The pass-rushing ability that Hall brings is going to get him on the field some at least.
Earning trust from defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is the first box that Hall needs to check off. A strong week this week could be a big boost prior to heading into training camp.
S Ronnie Hickman Jr.
Last season, Hickman made the team as an undrafted rookie and was a contributor for the Browns after having an impressive preseason for Cleveland.
Now heading into his second season, Hickman is not a lock to make the roster, but one player I believe should be on the team come September.
Hickman is likely the fourth safety for the Browns behind Grant Delpit, Juan Thornhill, and Rodney McLeod. McLeod is retiring after the season he has already said, so Hickman could be a guy that is higher on the depth chart in the distant future.
