The Evolution and Changing Role of Safeties – Sports Illustrated

Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Joe Woods aspires to play a defense with three safeties on the field, so former head coach Jim Mora Jr. explains the evolution and changing role of the position in defenses.

The Browns drafted Grant Delpit as the first pick on the defensive side of the ball under this new regime. Unfortunately, he suffered a ruptured Achilles' Tendon and missed his entire rookie season. They also went out and traded for Ronnie Harrison, who was a really nice addition to the defense.

The Browns could decide to resign Karl Joseph and have him play the third safety role or look for help elsewhere.

Between an NFL that is getting faster and spreading out more, the importance of the safety position has increased significantly for a number of defenses. Being able to coverage and run without giving up the necessary size to make tackles and stop the run.

This is particularly important in the current AFC landscape where the AFC championship was played between the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs. Neither team had much of any running attack, so having defensive backs that can cover while keeping the run in check are invaluable.

The Tennessee Titans are a team trying to go the other way, playing with more size, including Derrick Henry at running back. To their credit, in their matchup with the Titans, the Browns were able to hold Henry in check.

This offseason, the Browns will really have an opportunity to put a stamp on the defense Woods wants to run, including the safety position that should be featured prominently.

READ MORE: What's Reasonable to Expect from Grant Delpit in Year Two?

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The Evolution and Changing Role of Safeties - Sports Illustrated