In his first two seasons as defensive coordinator, the Cleveland Browns made a significant mark. They led the NFL in first downs allowed, third down conversion rate, and were among the top teams in passing yards allowed. As of 2023, their defense was even sharper, allowing just 270.2 yards per game—the best since the 2014 Seahawks. This impressive performance earned Schwartz the title of NFL Assistant Coach of the Year.
Fast forward to the end of the 2025 season, and the Browns were still performing at a high level. They ranked fourth in total yards allowed and third in passing yards, showing consistency in their defensive strategy. The team also recorded 53 sacks, breaking the franchise record. Myles Garrett notably shattered the NFL single-season sack record with 23 sacks, showcasing the team’s dominance on defense.
Experience plays a key role in Schwartz’s success. Over 17 seasons as a defensive coordinator, he has honed his skills with teams like the Titans, Bills, and Eagles. He contributed to the Eagles’ victory in Super Bowl LII and helped them lead the league in rushing defense that same year. Actions like this illustrate why so many defensive linemen thrive under his guidance—he’s coached eight players to achieve double-digit sacks in a season.
The impact of defense in today’s NFL cannot be understated. Statistics from the past few seasons show that teams with strong defenses often make playoff runs. In fact, a recent study found that defenses ranked in the top ten typically have a higher chance of advancing past the first round of the playoffs.
Fans are buzzing online about the Browns’ defensive capabilities, often sharing clips of incredible plays by Garrett and the rest of the defense. Social media platforms are filled with discussions about how vital coordination and strategy are in winning games. It seems the narrative is clear: strong defenses dominate. As the Browns continue to build on their successes, they become a team to watch both now and in the future.
For further insights into the evolving role of defense in the NFL, check out the [NFL’s official statistics](https://www.nfl.com/stats/) and [football analytics research](https://www.footballoutsiders.com/) for in-depth analysis.
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