Projected Cleveland Browns 2019 defensive depth chart, post-NFL Draft

With free agency essentially over and the NFL Draft having just been completed, we now have our clearest look at what the Cleveland Browns' depth chart will look like in 2019.

Suffice to say, the Browns have made some significant changes -- and upgrades -- from a season ago.

Between the addition of multiple Pro Bowl playmakers on the offensive side of the ball and defensive-heavy draft, Cleveland's depth chart will feature no shortage of fresh faces in 2019. And not only should the Browns be a better team next season, but a deeper one too, as John Dorsey enters his second season as the team's general manager.

With the bulk of the offseason -- at least from a transactions standpoint -- now in the books, it's time to look ahead to how Cleveland's newest pieces will each fit. With that in mind, here's a look at the Browns' projected defensive depth chart for the 2019 season:

You can view the Browns' 2019 post-draft projected offensive depth chart here.

Defensive end

1. Myles Garrett
2. Chris Smith
3. Anthony Zettel

Defensive end

1. Olivier Vernon
2. Chad Thomas

After earning Pro Bowl honors in his sophomore season, Myles Garrett returns as the anchor of the Browns' defense -- with newfound help across from him on the defensive line. In acquiring Olivier Vernon from the New York Giants, Cleveland has added another Pro Bowl-caliber pass-rusher, who has tallied 51 sacks over the course of his seven-year career.

After trading Emmanuel Ogbah, Cleveland's defensive end depth is lacking, although Chris Smith has shown flashes of being a capable performer in spot duty. Anthony Zettel and Chad Thomas will both likely have to fight to keep their roster spots with Dorsey likely eyeing the waiver wire for additional help.

Defensive tackle

1. Larry Ogunjobi
2. Brian Price
3. Carl Davis

Defensive tackle

1. Sheldon Richardson
2. Trevon Coley
3. Devaroe Lawrence

In signing Sheldon Richardson, Dorsey filled one of his depth chart's largest holes, adding a sizable (6-foot-3, 295 pounds) space eater to pair alongside the playmaking Larry Ogunjobi. With starting experience of his own, Trevon Coley is capable of providing solid depth and will pair with Brian Price to keep the Browns' starters fresh.

Outside linebacker

1. Genard Avery
2. Adarius Taylor

After an impressive rookie season, Genard Avery will enter the 2019 season as a starter after Cleveland opted to cut Jamie Collins. Given the Browns' lack of depth at defensive end, it also wouldn't be surprising to see the Memphis product primarily used as a pass-rusher -- be it as a linebacker or with his hand in the ground.

Signed from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this spring, Adarius Taylor will be counted on to provide across Cleveland's linebacking corps. His primary use, however, will come on special teams, where his play earned him a captain role during his time in Tampa Bay.

Middle linebacker

1. Joe Schobert
2. Mack Wilson
3. Xavier Woodson-Luster

Joe Schobert is slated to enter his third season manning the middle of the Browns' defense but it's worth noting that the two linebackers Cleveland selected in the draft each primarily played inside during their college careers. Should the Browns keep Schobert, a 2017 Pro Bowl selection, fifth-round pick rookie Mack Wilson could serve as his primary understudy. But should Cleveland find a sensible trade to deal Schobert in, it could open the door for second-round selection Sione Takitaki to earn a starting spot.

Will linebacker

1. Christian Kirksey
2. Sione Takitaki
3. Ray Ray Armstrong

After appearing in 64 straight games to begin his NFL career, injuries limited Christian Kirksey to just seven contests in 2018. While the Browns captain will likely resume his starting role on the outside in 2019, the additions of Takitaki and Wilson should provide flexibility should Kirksey's injuries persist or if he's needed elsewhere in the team's lineup.

Cornerback

1. Denzel Ward
2. T.J. Carrie
3. Tavierre Thomas

Cornerback

1. Greedy Williams
2. Terrance Mitchell

Although not necessarily a pressing need, the Browns entered this past offseason looking to upgrade one of its starting cornerback spots. In drafting Greedy Williams with the No. 46 pick, Dorsey may have done just that, adding an All-American cornerback to play alongside Denzel Ward, who earned Pro Bowl honors in his rookie campaign.

A starter last season -- at least when he was healthy -- Terrance Mitchell will still see plenty of reps and will be called upon should either Ward or Williams be unavailable. T.J. Carrie, meanwhile, will likely serve as the team's primary nickel back -- a spot that safety Eric Murray could also help fill.

Strong safety

1. Morgan Burnett
2. Jermaine Whitehead

Free safety

1. Damarious Randall
2. Eric Murray
3. Sheldrick Redwine

Coming off a down year in Pittsburgh, Morgan Burnett will be counted on to fill the void left at strong safety after Cleveland traded Jabrill Peppers to the New York Giants. But as was the case with Peppers last season, Burnett could benefit from another strong season from free safety Damarious Randall, who will be looking to cash in on a long-term extension with the Browns after recording 4 interceptions a season ago.