Of all the Browns’ position groups, perhaps few are as strong as Cleveland’s linebackers.
Second-year middle linebacker Joe Schobert earned his first trip to the Pro Bowl in his first year as a starter. Christian Kirksey recorded at least 138 tackles for the second-consecutive season. Jamie Collins Sr. looked ready for a strong finish before a midseason knee injury sidelined him for the remainder of the year. In his place, James Burgess Jr. stepped up, as the Browns featured one of the league’s best run defenses.
Who’s back
Joe Schobert — 16 games, 16 starts; 144 tackles, 3 sacks, 3 FF, 1 INT
Christian Kirksey — 16 games, 16 starts; 138 tackles, 3.