Confusion surrounded the Cleveland Browns’ decision to select linebacker Carson Schwesinger out of UCLA with the first pick of the second round in last year’s draft. With pressing needs on offense, many expected the team to bolster their offensive lineup. Instead, Vice President of Football Operations and General Manager Andrew Berry chose to address the defense, first selecting defensive tackle Mason Graham and then Schwesinger.
This decision proved to be a stroke of brilliance for Berry when Schwesinger was honored as the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Year on Thursday night at the NFL Honors in San Francisco. His achievement marks a significant milestone for the franchise, as Schwesinger is only the second Browns player ever to win a rookie of the year award, joining cornerback Chip Banks, who captured the accolade back in 1982.
Despite facing challenges, including a mid-season ankle injury that sidelined him for some practices, Schwesinger’s resilience shone through as he played in 16 games, missing only the season finale due to a quad injury. The 22-year-old linebacker set impressive records, leading the team with 156 combined tackles—the sixth highest in the NFL—along with 11 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks. He also contributed two interceptions, defended three passes, and recorded nine quarterback hits, showcasing his versatile skill set.
While the Browns have yet to see a player win the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year, former quarterback Baker Mayfield did secure the PFWA overall Rookie of the Year Award in 2018. This year, Schwesinger took home the PFWA’s Defensive Player of the Year Award but fell shy of the overall award, which went to Carolina Panthers’ wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan.
From the onset of training camp, it was clear that Schwesinger would play a critical role in the Browns’ defense. Following veteran linebacker Jordan Hicks’ retirement, Schwesinger took on the responsibility of wearing the green dot, signifying that he was the primary communicator of defensive plays on the field. Remarkably, he embraced this significant role with confidence and immediately garnered respect from his teammates.
By quickly establishing himself as a cornerstone of the Browns’ defense, Schwesinger has shown tremendous promise. With standout performances alongside stalwarts like Myles Garrett and Denzel Ward, he has the potential to be a key member of a young core that could drive the team’s resurgence in future seasons. The Browns and their fans can be hopeful that Schwesinger’s impactful rookie campaign is a precursor to a bright future ahead.