Defensive lines are the story of first Browns-Eagles joint practice

Cleveland Browns took part in day one of two days of joint practices with the Philadelphia Eagles today and plenty happened. It must be noted, that following these two joint practices, the team will play a preseason game on Thursday. Both teams had it going on defense for Monday’s practice. Getting straight to the point, […]

Brandon Little — Ohio State Buckeyes & Cleveland Browns News Writer
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Cleveland Browns took part in day one of two days of joint practices with the Philadelphia Eagles today and plenty happened.

It must be noted, that following these two joint practices, the team will play a preseason game on Thursday.

Both teams had it going on defense for Monday’s practice.

Getting straight to the point, the Browns had the better day overall, per an Eagles beat reporter, and brought the energy that you like to see. Both edge rushers Myles Garrett and Za’Darius Smith were active, collecting multiple sacks. Even the third defensive end Ogbonnia Okoronkwo was wreaking havoc.

Cleveland’s defensive line is likely to be their strong suit on that side of the ball. After investing into the unit heavily this off-season, the Browns will need it to pay off. 

Garrett exited practice with trainers, as did Denzel Ward. The good news is that both players are expected to be okay and it was just precautionary.

As it was noted before the practice, these two days would be good work for the Browns’ cornerbacks. According to one account of the action, Martin Emerson Jr. and Eagles’ wideout A.J. Brown battled it out, with each having good moments. In his second season, Emerson could be a player that breaks out. He showed the ability to be a ‘dude’ at the position as a rookie when he broke onto the scene.

Philadelphia’s defensive line did good work too, as they were able to get to Deshaun Watson on multiple occasions. Rookie DT Jalen Carter was a notable standout for Philadelphia. 

Tomorrow should be a larger sample size of work with both teams having a day under their belt. Cleveland had a trio of starters exit practice, which was not ideal. Right tackle Jack Conklin (possible concussion) joined Garrett (foot) and Ward (illness) in this department.

Day one was a success for Jim Schwartz and his defense and a step in a good direction for a unit that hopes to take a big step forward. 

Both teams will be back at it tomorrow at 5 p.m. eastern time to do this all over again. 

Featured image via Scott Galvin USA TODAY Sports.

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