The Cleveland Browns announced their unofficial depth chart for Friday’s preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium, providing fans and analysts their first detailed look at how the team plans to utilize its talent in the 2025 season. The Browns depth chart showcases significant changes from last season while highlighting the team’s commitment to developing young talent.
Table of Contents
Key Roster Movements Shape Browns Depth Chart
The most notable aspect of Cleveland’s depth chart is the quarterback situation. Joe Flacco leads the depth chart, followed by Kenny Pickett, with rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders listed behind them. This arrangement reflects the team’s strategic approach while Deshaun Watson remains on the injured list.
The offensive line presents an intriguing mix of veterans and newcomers. Joel Bitonio anchors the left guard position, while Wyatt Teller holds down right guard. The center position features Ethan Pocic as the starter, with Luke Wypler providing experienced depth.
Defensive Standouts and Special Teams Formations
Defensively, the Browns depth chart highlights Myles Garrett’s continued dominance at left defensive end. The defensive backfield shows strong depth with Grant Delpit at strong safety and Ronnie Hickman taking the free safety role. Denzel Ward and Greg Newsome II maintain their cornerback positions, providing veteran leadership in the secondary.
The linebacker corps features interesting developments, with Carson Schwesinger, a rookie, positioned at middle linebacker. This suggests the coaching staff’s confidence in the young player’s abilities and potential impact.
Key Points Summary
📋 Quick Breakdown for Fast Readers:
- Joe Flacco leads QB depth chart with Kenny Pickett backing up
- Multiple rookies positioned throughout offensive and defensive units
- Myles Garrett anchors defensive line as expected
- Special teams show established veterans in key roles
- Deshaun Watson remains on injured list
Rookie Integration and Development Focus
The Browns depth chart reveals significant investment in rookie talent across multiple positions. The offensive side features several first-year players, including receivers and linemen who could contribute immediately. This approach demonstrates the organization’s commitment to building for both present success and future sustainability.
Jerome Ford leads the running back depth chart, with rookie Dylan Sampson positioned as his primary backup. The wide receiver corps shows depth with Jerry Jeudy and Diontae Johnson leading the way, while rookie talent provides developmental upside.
Special Teams and Kicking Game Stability
The special teams units reflect stability and experience. Corey Bojorquez handles both punting and holding duties, while Dustin Hopkins remains the primary kicker. DeAndre Carter takes on return responsibilities for both kickoffs and punts, showcasing his versatility and value to the team.
The long snapper position features Rex Sunahara as the starter, with Brent Matiscik providing backup support. These positions often go unnoticed but remain crucial for field goal and punting success.
Injury Considerations and Depth Management
Several players appear on the depth chart with injury designations, including Deshaun Watson and Mike Hall Jr. This reality forces the coaching staff to rely heavily on depth players and creates opportunities for younger talent to showcase their abilities during preseason action.
The Browns’ approach to managing injuries while maintaining competitive depth speaks to their organizational planning and roster construction. Players like Cameron Thomas and Isaiah McGuire could see increased opportunities based on health situations ahead of them on the depth chart.
Looking Ahead to Regular Season Implications
While preseason depth charts often change significantly before the regular season begins, this initial Browns depth chart provides valuable insight into the team’s current thinking. The balance between veteran leadership and rookie development suggests a franchise focused on both immediate competitiveness and long-term success.
The positioning of various players also creates compelling storylines to follow throughout preseason games. Competition for roster spots and starting positions will intensify as players seek to improve their standing before final cuts.
The Browns depth chart sets the stage for an exciting preseason opener against the Panthers, where fans can evaluate talent and coaching decisions in live game action. Share your thoughts on the most surprising depth chart positions and which rookies you expect to make the biggest impact this season.