Browns defender reveals big expectations for second year in Cleveland

The Browns had the best defense in the league in terms of total yards allowed per game (270.2) last season. Every defender that's a part of the dominant unit believes they can be a true difference maker.

That's exactly how edge-rusher Ogbo Okoronkwo feels heading into his second season in Cleveland.

"This year, I'm trying to...I'll say it, I'll speak it into existence. I'm going for double-digit sacks this year," Okoronkwo said, via Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston. "That's the goal every year. I'm just gonna put in the work. I hate to say numbers, but that's what I'm looking to get."

Those are quite the lofty expectations for Okoronkwo. The 29-year-old has never had more than five sacks in a season and only has 14 sacks in his six-year NFL career.

To make matters worse, Okoronkwo is still behind reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett and three-time Pro Bowler Za'Darius Smith on the depth chart, and rightfully so after the two combined for 69 tackles (25 for a loss), 19.5 sacks, five forced fumbles and one fumble recovery last season.

Okoronkwo should still have a bigger role in his second year with the Browns after he saw the field for 52.8 percent of defensive snaps last season. However, he will likely continue playing his role as a rotational edge-rusher, barring any injuries.

The former fifth-round pick in 2018 would need to have by far his best season yet to hit double-digit sacks. Although, it's not impossible.

Edge-rusher Bryce Huff registered 10 sacks as the Jets primary third-down rusher in 2023 and earned himself a big payday (three-year, $51.1M) from the Eagles this offseason.

Like New York a season ago, Cleveland should benefit from being deep across the board. 

Okoronkwo, who said he feels "great" and is "100 percent ready to go," may just have a chance to reach his big goals in 2024.