Key Takeaways:
– Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns’ premier pass-rusher, is expected to step up his game in the next season.
– New defensive line coach, Jacques Cesaire, has high expectations for Garrett.
– Despite not attending Browns’ off-season workouts, the team is confident in Garrett’s personal offseason plans.
Body:
Browns Aim for Greater Heights with Garrett
When it comes to sacking quarterbacks and winning distinctions, Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns is no stranger. The powerful pass-rusher has consistently delivered outstanding performances, yet the Browns have loftier aspirations for their star player. Garrett, fresh off his first Defensive Player of the Year award, is under fresh expectations from both the team and the new defensive line coach, Jacques Cesaire.
Despite battling a shoulder injury, Garrett’s stellar performance last season saw him record 14 sacks, leading the Browns’ defensive charge. He was essentially a thorn in the flesh of opposing teams, who had to account for his presence during each play.
High Hopes for Garrett Under New Coach Cesaire
Cesaire, set to debut as the new defensive line coach in the Browns’ upcoming season, minced no words concerning his expectations for Garrett during a recent interview. “A lot more,” was Cesaire’s response when asked about his expectations for Garrett. Cesaire further elaborated on his vision, believing in Garrett’s drive to maintain his upward trajectory. He said, “Myles knows that. Myles is the type of person that he wants to be great. He understands that and he’s working.”
Garrett’s potential for achievement in the league is a formidable prospect for NFL rivals. The former No. 1 overall pick has achieved double-digit sacks every year since his rookie season. In his 100 career games, Garrett boasts an impressive record of 88.5 sacks and is already the franchise’s career sack leader.
Garrett’s Off-Season Workouts
While Garrett has so far been absent from the Browns’ off-season workouts, the team has strong faith in his individual off-season plans. Cesaire confirmed being in contact with Garrett and noted, “He’s working hard. I know he wants to come back, and obviously, when you lose in the playoffs, you don’t feel great about it. He has things that he needs to work on.”
Garrett’s personal success acts as a major catalyst to drive the Browns to post-season glory. He previously vocalized his belief in Cleveland’s ability to secure a Super Bowl spot, were it not for key injuries. Garrett now works on ironing out his game, aiming to bolster the Browns’ performance next season.
Browns Retain League-Leading Defense
The Browns’ defense shone brightly last season under Garrett’s leadership, allowing only an average of 270.2 yards per game, the league’s lowest. The Browns have managed to retain almost all their key defensive players, including DE Za’Darius Smith, DT Shelby Harris, DT Maurice Hurst II, and S Rodney McLeod, who all re-signed in free agency.
Despite the team’s success last season, defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz cautions not to rest on their laurels. “We can’t get complacent. Last year means nothing. We’re in a little different spot just because we have some experience in the defense, but we can’t act as if anything’s going to carry over from last year,” Schwartz warned.
In the face of Schwartz’s call for renewed focus and Cesaire’s high expectations, all eyes will be on how Garrett leads the Browns in the upcoming season, starting with their match against the Dallas Cowboys on September 8. For fans and opponents alike, Garrett’s performance will undoubtedly be a spectacle to watch.