With the Cleveland Browns switching back to a 3-4 defensive scheme, the nose tackle position is the anchor on the defensive line. The Browns have several anchors that can make an impact. Here is a look at the defensive tackle position.
Former first round pick, Phil Taylor should be ready to go this season. After missing half of last season from the weight lifting injury, you can be sure that the big guy is ready. The other two that can also centerpiece the line are free agent, Desmond Bryant and six-year Brown, Ahtyba Rubin. Bryant is as solid as they come missing only one game in four seasons. Although, there have been talks of moving both Bryant and Rubin to defensive end. I expect Bryant and Taylor to fill the middle though.
Last year’s third round pick, John Hughes is another guy that could play nose tackle. Hughes very quietly had a decent rookie season getting three sacks in limited playing time. Cleveland signed 330 pound Ishmaa’ily Kitchen off of waivers last year and he stuck on the roster throughout the 2012 season. Kitchen will have to fight this year to make a roster spot with the addition of Bryant.
Look for a guy named, Nicolas Jean-Baptiste at training camp too. Jean Baptiste is another 330 pound beast that will see a lot of exhibition time. However, in the crowded tackle position, it will be a long shot to make the team for Baptiste. I do see him on the practice squad though.
Projected Starter: Desmond Bryant
Ryan Ruiz is the Cleveland Browns Beat Writer for The Inscriber: Digital Magazine. You can follow him on Facebook: Ryan Ruiz (BrownsWriter) and Twitter @ryanpruiz24.