One glaring, I mean glaring position that is absent from this list is quarterback. The three other QB’s in the AFC North are all in their teams top so the Browns have a way to go, but hopefully we can have the QB position in the mid season top ten list.
10. Ahtyba Rubin
DT – Really coming into his own and benefited the most from the switch to the 4-3 defense.
9. Trent Richardson
RB – I realize he has yet to take a handoff, but he is a beast and the Browns were 4-12 last year with a horrible offense and they lost Hillis so why not?
8. TJ Ward
S – Missed the last eight games last season and the Browns went 1 – 7 in that stretch. They were only 3 – 5 in the games he played, but he is somewhat of a presence on an improved defense.
7. Josh Cribbs
WR – Cribbs is entering his 9th season and is not as effective in the return game as he once was. He still covers them well though and is a weapon on offense. Had his best year at WR in 2011.
6. Jabaal Sheard
DE - Had 6 of his 8.5 sacks in the last seven games as a Rookie last season and forced five fumbles as well. Seemed to get more comfortable when he was moved to the left side of the defensive a couple games into the season. Has a great motor.
5. Phil Taylor
DT – This was a big blow to the Browns improving defense. I believe he made Sheard and Rubin better players. Hopefully he can contribute this season when he returns in November.
4. Joe Haden
CB – Excellent tackler and has great ball skills. Had a so-so 2nd season.
3. Alex Mack
C – Has started 48 out of 48 games in his NFL career at a very tough position and performed well.
2. D’Qwell Jackson
MLB – Another player that benefited from the 4-3 defense. DQ missed the entire 2010 season and played in just 6 games in 2009. He came back in 2011 to record 116 solo tackles and was the unquestionable leader of the defense.
1. Joe Thomas
LT – 5 seasons and 5 Pro Bowls. One of the best blind-side protectors in the game.
Arnie Hamilton
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