Andrew Berry, Kevin Stefanski discuss NFL Draft Day 3 in conference call: Transcript
Updated May 01, 2021;
Here’s a transcript, as provided by the Browns’ media-relations department:
Opening statement:
Berry: “I will keep it brief this afternoon, but I actually want to start off by just thanking really everyone across football operations who have worked so hard to execute this weekend throughout the draft. That starts with our college scouts, our coaches and player development staff, our research and strategy group and our contract management team, as well. A lot of individuals have contributed over really the last year and a half for this draft. Really, really pleased with the work that that our entire group has done. We are very excited about the eight drafted rookies that we were able to add over the past three days, and we are excited. Much like really all 32 teams in the NFL after the draft is completed, but we also know the reality of the situation is all of these g
Apr 18, 2021
Attempting to sign J.J. Watt and then ultimately signing Clowney could be as simple as opportunities that presented themselves, but both players offered the Browns a couple key features that would be attractive given the defense they want to run.
First, both have ability the length and size to protect the second level from blockers. The Browns plan to play smaller and faster at the second and third level, so having a defensive line that can protect them is critical.
Additionally, both Watt and Clowney offer the ability to play up and down the line, can effectively rush from the interior. The ability to play them inside to rush gives them the ability to put more speed on the edges to attack the quarterback. Takkarist McKinley was signed with this exact function in mind.
Apr 16, 2021
The Cleveland Browns unexpectedly released defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson. Not because of his contract, which most would agree was too high, but because he was a reliable, professional defensive tackle and they are reasonably thin at that position. Given the way the way the Browns view defense, they are always looking at maximizing their strengths by minimizing their investment elsewhere and that might be their approach on the defensive line.
The Browns are thin at defensive tackle. They have three Sunday capable defensive tackles on their roster between Andrew Billiings, coming off of his opt out year, Malik Jackson, who was signed this offseason and Jordan Elliott, the lone player who contributed on the team last year as a third round rookie.