Tyson Campbell’s Remarkable Rise with the Browns
Tyson Campbell made headlines when he was traded to the Cleveland Browns on October 8th earlier this year. In a deal that sent shockwaves through the league, Campbell and a seventh-round pick were exchanged for Greg Newsome II and a sixth-round pick. This marked the second significant trade between the Browns and the Jacksonville Jaguars this season, the first being Jacksonville’s strategic move to trade up to the second overall pick in the NFL Draft, allowing them to select standout Travis Hunter.
Statistical Parity and Career Trajectories
Both Campbell and Newsome share comparable statistics, reflecting their similar roles and timelines in the league. At just 25 years old, both were drafted in the same 2021 class, but since the trade, Campbell has elevated his performance to a new level with the Browns. Currently, he has recorded 18 passes defended, placing him second in the NFL behind only Mike Jackson of the Carolina Panthers. Notably, this marks a career-high for Campbell.
Enhancing the Browns’ Defensive Lineup
Campbell’s impact on the Browns’ defense has been palpable. Denzel Ward led the NFL with 19 passes defended last season, and with Campbell’s recent contributions, the team is well-positioned to dominate this statistic for a second consecutive year. In addition to his impressive pass defense, Campbell has forced two fumbles this season, tying him for the most among cornerbacks in the league. His total tackles have also surged to 83, representing the highest figure of his five-year career.
Pro Football Focus Ratings and Defensive Metrics
Analyzing Campbell’s performance through Pro Football Focus, he holds a rating of 68.1, ranking 31st among 113 qualified cornerbacks. He has been a significant target for opposing offenses, ranking as the sixth most targeted player in the NFL with over 88 targets. Impressively, just 45 of those attempts have resulted in receptions. His ability to defend tight windows has also shone through, as he has forced tight coverage on 37.5% of targeted passes, placing him 12th in the league for this metric.
A Standout Performance Against Pittsburgh
In a recent game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Campbell’s skills were on full display. Targeted eight times, he allowed only four receptions for a mere 20 yards, while also defending two crucial passes. This performance underscores his growth and adaptability within the Browns’ system. While Campbell has allowed a total of 642 yards this season, it is noteworthy that 314 of those yards were accrued during his initial five games with Jacksonville. Since joining Cleveland, he has restricted opponents to an average of just 29.8 yards per game over 11 contests.
A Perfect Fit for the Browns’ Defensive Scheme
While Greg Newsome II has demonstrated solid coverage for the Jaguars, Campbell’s physical attributes and tackling ability make him an ideal fit for Jim Schwartz’s defensive system. At just 25 years old, Campbell presents a promising future for the Browns, with three years remaining on his current contract. His blend of skill, youth, and potential positions him as a cornerstone of a defense that aims to establish dominance in the coming seasons.
