Besides QB, Browns big ‘lingering’ questions are replacing Myles Garrett, extensions

In many ways, the story around the Cleveland Browns has remained the same heading into the 2026 season: What is the deal at the quarterback position? The offensive line has been upgraded, and the wide receiver room saw an update this offseason, while RB Quinshon Judkins and TE Harold Fannin Jr. are the bedrock of the offense’s future.

The defense is looking to replace two key components: DE Myles Garrett and DC Jim Schwartz. Adding DE Jared Verse in the Garrett deal puts a lot of pressure on the young defensive end, while CBs Denzel Ward and Tyson Campbell are locked in as veteran cornerstones of a defense, along with youngsters Carson Schwesinger and Mason Graham.

As the offseason prepares to turn to training camp, ESPN’s Daniel Oyefusi has listed Cleveland’s three “lingering questions,” including the obvious quarterback position. Verse and the Browns pass rush were the second question:

Cleveland, though, believes it is still well-equipped to field an elite defense after getting two-time Pro Bowler Jared Verse in return. Verse isn’t in Garrett’s caliber as a pass rusher, but he has still been one of the more disruptive edge defenders in his first two seasons.

Whether the team extends safety Grant Delpit and Ward also linger:

Two of the team’s most tenured players, Ward and Delpit, could be next; league sources have indicated the Browns are open to striking new deals with both defensive standouts.

If Verse and Graham are able to keep the defense’s level high and the offense can minimize mistakes, Cleveland can be more competitive in 2026 than they were last year. A few wins before the NFL trade deadline could increase the likelihood of Ward and/or Delpit getting extensions instead of being traded away.

What other questions do you think linger for the Browns beyond QB, pass rush, and whether they can lock up two of their veteran defenders?

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