Cleveland Browns (DEF, CLE) - 2015 Fantasy Football Sleeper

BALLER MOVE: Target in Late Rounds

Current ADP: 264 STD

ANALYSIS: The Cleveland Browns make for an interesting D/ST unit because, while they have the second hardest schedule of opposing run games, they also have the fourth easiest schedule in terms of passing.

The Browns gave up 2,265 rushing yards, the most in the league last year. Their best run defender, defensive end Jabaal Sheard, is now on the Patriots, but Cleveland selected three defensive linemen in the first three rounds of the draft. Nose tackle Danny Shelton should crack the starting lineup as a run stopper with some pass-rushing capability. Phil Taylor is back this season, and the team added Randy Starks via free agency, but look for the rookies to try and bolster that line in 2015.

In the linebacking corps, Karlos Dansby is still great in pass coverage despite being 33, and Barkevious Mingo improved in his sophomore season,  particularly against the run.

Despite a low sack total, the Browns were very good at defending the pass, mostly thanks to cornerback Joe Haden. Donte Whitner and Tashaun Gipson were also large contributors in the secondary. Buster Skrine is now gone, but was replaced with Tramon Williams, and Justin Gilbert, last year’s first round pick, will have a larger role.

The Browns have the tools and will get their share of takeaways. They’ve made some improvements defensively, and Duke Johnson will also boost this unit with his skills as a returner.