The AFC North has long been the most competitive division in the NFL, top to bottom. Known for its physical style of play, no division has as many must-watch matchups as this one.
One key feature?
Every time the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns face off, it's no secret that the No. 1 goal is to slow down Myles Garrett. This isn't a strategy unique to the Steelers, but now the Browns have a former Steelers quarterback on their roster in Kenny Pickett.
Pickett isn't the only former Steelers offensive player around here, as the Browns also now employ wideout Deontae Johnson.
But in total?
The two former Steelers being on the Browns offense makes the matchup even more intriguing.
During Wednesday's media availability, Pickett was asked about how the Steelers used to plan for stopping Garrett.
“You’re gonna get four hands on him at all times, you know, especially on third downs,” Pickett said. “You’re sliding, you’re chipping, you’re putting two men on him. And that just affects everything in the passing game because it takes away an underneath route, where guys can start dropping into second-level and third-level throws."
Pickett's revelation wasn't exactly surprising, it's a common strategy when going against one of the NFL's best defensive ends. Garrett has posted double-digit sacks in seven of his eight NFL seasons.
Garrett has posted back-to-back 14 sack seasons, and had back-to-back 16 sack seasons in the two previous campaigns. Garrett led the NFL in tackles for loss with 22 in 2024. In his career, Garrett has totaled 200 quarterback hits (29 per every 17 games).
“He’s truly a game-wrecker type of player when it comes to game planning." Pickett said. "You always have to know where 95 is and have a plan for him.”
Cleveland's defensive identity has long been centered around its front. 2025 will be no exception, but it may be an even more intimidating front, with the additions of Mason Graham and Malik Collins alongside Garrett.
Pickett may get the chance to face his former team, as one of the four quarterbacks the Browns brought in this offseason. He's currently competing with fellow veteran Joe Flacco and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Joe Flacco for the starting gig.