The Cleveland Browns have endured plenty of turbulence throughout the offseason. From major roster changes to the ongoing quarterback controversy, there has been no shortage of distractions in Cleveland.

However, none of that will matter once the Browns take the field against the Jacksonville Jaguars. They face a difficult challenge in Trevor Lawrence, who is coming off a season in which he helped Jacksonville finish 13-4.

Jared Verse, however, isn't intimidated by the challenge. The Browns defensive end knows Lawrence is dangerous, but he believes Cleveland's defense needs to attack rather than play scared.

“Trevor Lawrence is a great player…We’re going to get after him. We’re going to get to him. We’re going to hit him.”

That's quite the message from Verse ahead of his first regular-season game with Cleveland. The former Rams star is now one of the biggest pieces of a revamped Browns defense, and he appears ready to make an immediate impact.

NFL Insider Tips Browns for Playoff Success Under One Condition

Despite all the negativity surrounding Cleveland, there are still people who believe this team can surprise everyone. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler recently suggested that the Browns have enough talent to compete for a playoff spot.

However, Fowler believes one factor could determine whether that becomes reality. He argued that if Deshaun Watson's play can improve from poor to merely passable, Cleveland could be in decent shape during Todd Monken's first season.

That puts enormous pressure on Watson. If he can deliver, the Browns could have a chance to make some noise.

Written by

Joseph Nithin