NFL Week 2 Buzz: Browns‘ Defense Shines, Titans’ Ward Shows Promise, Panthers Eye Rookie Edge rushers
CLEVELAND – the Cleveland Browns’ defense delivered a statement performance in Week 1, holding cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow to just 113 passing yards, signaling a potential return to the dominant form displayed under defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz in 2023. This defensive resurgence, coupled with offensive weapons like rookie wide receiver Harold Fannin Jr., has fueled optimism in Cleveland as they prepare for Week 2.
The Browns’ defensive success isn’t just a one-game anomaly. Cornerback Denzel Ward expressed confidence in the unit’s potential, stating, “We can be a special defense… We have the right guys in the building and are capable of doing it. We just have to go out ther and put it on tape to get back to where we were.” While slot cornerback remains a minor concern, the depth of the defensive front and the speedy impact of rookie linebacker Carson Schwesinger are bolstering the team’s outlook.
titans’ Cam Ward Impresses despite Stats: Despite a challenging Week 1 debut against a top-five defense in Denver, Titans rookie quarterback Cam Ward reportedly showcased promising attributes. Completing 12 of 28 passes for 112 yards,Ward faced a unfriendly surroundings,dropped passes from his receiving corps,and still demonstrated poise and accuracy. An NFL coordinator who reviewed the game noted, “I think he is super talented and will have a great year. When he had time, he was accurate with unquestionable poise for a young QB. Athletic enough to stay alive to make off-script plays down the field. He is aggressive for a young guy, which will surprise lots of teams.”
Panthers to Evaluate Rookie Edge Rushers: Following a Week 1 defeat against the Jacksonville Jaguars,the Carolina Panthers are considering increased playing time for rookie edge rushers Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen. Coach Dave Canales indicated a desire to give younger players more opportunities. Scourton and Umanmielen played 18 and 8 snaps respectively in Week 1, and the Panthers hope to generate more pass rush after failing to record a sack against the Jaguars.
