Chiefs opponent preview, divisional round: Scouting the Browns

The first overall selection in the 2018 NFL Draft is the first quarterback to lead the Browns to the playoffs since Tim Couch did it in 2002. Mayfield’s performances have not been without criticism but a career-low eight interceptions have silenced a majority of the doubters. Mayfield has also thrown for 3,563 yards and 26 touchdowns.

One of the several former Georgia Bulldogs running backs currently playing in the league. Chubb is in his third year and has gotten himself mentioned with the best backs in the NFL. Chubb and Kareem Hunt make a great argument for the best running back tandem in the game today. Chubb leads the team in rushing with 1,067 yards and 12 touchdowns.

A free-agent acquisition from Tennessee in the 2020 offseason gave the Browns one of the final and most important pieces of their offensive line. Conklin spent the first four seasons of his career with the Titans but signed a three-year deal with Cleveland. Conklin and first-round rookie Jedrick Wills create a stout tackle tandem to go along with a road-paving interior OL. Conklin missed the Wild Card game and is questionable against the Chiefs.

Another former No. 1 overall pick for the Browns in 2017 draftee Myles Garrett. The former Texas A&M Aggie defense end leads the team in sacks with 12 and he adds 48 tackles, four forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries to his 2020 Pro Bowl season. Garrett got double-digit sacks for the third straight season.

Denzel Ward has been one of the best defenders on the Browns defense since getting drafted fourth overall in 2018. He recently was removed from the COVID list and should be ready to go against Kansas City, though could be limited in his return. Ward has only two interceptions on the season but has deflected 18 passes away. He also has 48 tackles and a forced fumble.