Final 53-Man Roster Projection (Defense)

A revised projection of the Browns defensive roster as cuts come down the line over the next 24 hours.

(Photo - Cleveland Browns)

I tried to get this article out before the Browns made moves, but I was foiled. Despite some of the players I discuss already being cut by the team, it’s still worth reviewing where they stand. I do think some of the players the team released on Monday have a chance to rejoin the practice squad after final cuts, if they clear waivers.

On the flip side, we do now have more information about the injury situation, which is particularly applicable to the defense, as Greg Newsome or Dalvin Tomlinson staying on the PUP list would have opened up a roster spot. That didn’t happen, which is great news, but it means the team is going to face some tougher cuts.

The biggest name to discuss on the defensive side is probably Siaki Ika. That’s because there are multiple names here that I would rather see make the Browns initial roster, but I don’t think Andrew Berry will cut bait on the player just yet. Myles Harden, Jowon Briggs, and Mike Woods on the offensive side, are all players I would prefer to Ika. I think keeping him would be a mistake, but I am still leaning towards it happening, because of the draft pedigree of the player. We shall see as Tuesday unfolds.

One last reminder: just because a player is cut before the deadline doesn’t mean that player won’t be on the Browns roster in 2024. Andrew Berry is one of the best in the league at navigating roster rules and stocking the practice squad with viable depth at crucial positions. The Browns have a host of depth options that are veteran players not eligible for waivers, so they can decide to join the Browns practice squad unilaterally.

Ogbo Okoronkwo (Photo - Cleveland Browns)

EDGE

On the Roster (5): Myles Garrett, Za’Darius Smith, Ogbo Okoronkwo, Alex Wright, Isaiah McGuire

In the Building (2): Isaiah Thomas, Jeremiah Martin