After a productive rookie season, Genard Avery has been notably absent this season. Avery has only appeared in one game making one tackle. Avery’s absence has led to frustration from the fanbase and analysts alike. The Cleveland Browns have two options when it comes to Genard Avery.
Play him or trade him
Genard Avery had an encouraging rookie campaign, totaling 40 tackles with 4.5 sacks. There is clearly talent to work with here. Avery is able to get after the quarterback and make tackles on a consistent basis, yet he is buried on the depth chart.
Is size a concern with Genard Avery? Absolutely. He’s 6’0” 250 lbs, not exactly an imposing figure on the defensive line. This is one factor in his lack of playing time. However, there are others.
A change in defense has left Genard Avery on the sideline
It is worth noting that the defensive scheme changed and Avery’s position with it. Avery was classified as a linebacker last season and is listed as a defensive end on the current Browns depth chart. There are different responsibilities for Avery when comparing the defensive scheme last year and this year.
In Gregg Williams’ scheme Avery was tasked with rushing the quarterback from the linebacker position. Under the defensive scheme of Steve Wilks, Avery’s skill set does not lend itself to the linebacker position, hence the position change. Wilks primarily a two linebacker set which heavily relies on zone coverage. Avery is better as a pass rusher than he is in pass coverage.
Adjusting to a new position definitely takes time, but here is the deal. Genard Avery is not a starter. Avery would be behind both Myles Garrett and Olivier Vernon. The current backup defensive ends are Chad Thomas and Chris Smith. Are the Browns seriously saying that Avery cannot get playing time over either of these two? Neither player is special. Chad Thomas’ spot on the roster is questionable at best. Chris Smith has bounced around the league for five years and has not done all that much. Utilizing Genard Avery in a rotation with other pass rushers would a better use of his skills instead of barely playing at all.
If the Browns are not going to play Genard Avery they should look to trade him.
Oakland is looking for pass rush help, perhaps they could reach a deal to send him to the Raiders to supplement their defense. A change of scenery could do Avery some good.
Perhaps the Browns could use Avery to upgrade their offensive line, an area that has been a major problem this season. Anything is possible when it comes to John Dorsey making deals.
The trade deadline looms and the Cleveland Browns will have to evaluate all of their options when it comes to what they are going to do when it comes to Genard Avery.
