Alex Wright Takes Browns D-Line Lead After 3-Year Extension and Garrett Trade
Updated
Updated · clevelandbrowns.com · Jun 4
Alex Wright Takes Browns D-Line Lead After 3-Year Extension and Garrett Trade
3 articles · Updated · clevelandbrowns.com · Jun 4
Summary
Alex Wright said at Browns OTAs he is embracing a bigger leadership role after Myles Garrett was traded for Jared Verse, with coaches pushing him to be more vocal on the defensive line.
The 2022 draft pick is now Cleveland's longest-tenured defensive lineman after signing a three-year extension in November 2025, giving him added responsibility in a unit entering a new era.
Wright is trying to match that role with production after a career-best 2025 season of 37 tackles, 12 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks in 14 games.
Jared Verse, the 2024 Defensive Rookie of the Year and a two-time Pro Bowler, has already begun working alongside Wright at OTAs, where Wright said he introduced him to the line's practice habits.
Cleveland is betting the transition will not weaken a defense that ranked fourth in the NFL at 283.6 yards allowed per game last season, even with a new coordinator in Mike Rutenberg.