It appears the Cleveland Browns are looking for some year-over-year consistency on their defensive line. Cleveland has agreed to deals with defensive end Za’Darius Smith and defensive tackle Maurice, keeping intact part of a productive defense from last year.
It is a two-year deal worth up to $25 million for Smith, according to reports. Smith is coming off an alright season last year, registering just 5.5 sacks, his lowest total in a full season since 2017. A contributing factor to his sack numbers being down is playing just 59% of defensive snaps. This also happens to be the lowest in a season, with more than one game played.
For Hurst, it is a one-year contract that can be worth up to $3.2 million, per a report. Hurst is coming off a year where he was moderately productive in a limited role. Appearing in just 39% of snaps, Hurst totaled 22 tackles, four of which went for a loss. These are not outstanding numbers by any means, but solid production from a player in a non-starting role.
Neither player is a star, nor should they be treated like one. But that does not mean they do not play an important part in Cleveland’s defense. They are part of the supporting cast for the few star players the Browns have. It is their job to support those players and make a play when it is advantageous for them to do so.
More must-reads: