When asked if Campbell met the expectation he and the coaching staff had from him, Schwartz replied with: “I’m even more proud of Tyson Campbell when it comes to the physicality and the way he plays the run game.”

In a media availability session on Thursday, Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz backed Campbell and praised him for his growth, which was evident in the Week 17 matchup.

Schwartz praised Campbell for his judgment on the field while playing against the Steelers. He took note of not just the coverage Campbell made, but also said he is “just great locating the ball.” He credited Campbell for ensuring Aaron Rodgers couldn’t make successful throws.

“And you saw a perfect example of that,” he said.

“When they tried the Scotty Miller play on fourth and one. And the quarterback couldn’t throw the guy open because the corner was staring at him, because Tyson was staring at him. So, you know, I think that he had some flashes in that first game.”

During the second quarter, the Steelers faced a crucial fourth-and-one moment from the Browns' 22-yard line. Rodgers attempted an unsuccessful deep pass to wide receiver Scotty Miller, who was standing in the end zone. The pass was incomplete and caused a turnover.

What Was Campbell's Performance Like?

The Browns lost to the Steelers in a humiliating 9-23 game in Week 6. A stark contrast to their latest 13-6 victory in Week 17. Cornerback Denzel Ward credited Campbell for his contribution in the game. 

“Man, Tyson, he was balling today,” he said, and further added that his performance made the two games against the Steelers so different from each other. 

Schwartz’s compliments for Campbell come after the 25-year-old was unceremoniously traded without any prior knowledge or indication. 

He was playing on “Monday Night Football” with the Jacksonville Jaguars and beat the former AFC Champions Kansas City Chiefs. However, in 48 hours, he was traded to the Browns, which at that point were at 1-4.

“It was rough,” Campbell said. “It’s a sudden change. You get a call saying you got to go to another state. It’s a challenge, but through the grace of God, he’s allowed me to persevere and stay resilient.”

Schwartz further added that, “Some people are trained not to look for the ball. But we want our guys to get their head around a little bit earlier and stuff like that.”

“And that’s been the thing that’s really earned him the respect, not just from the coaches, but from the other players and his opponents.”

While Campbell might’ve been heartbroken about the trade earlier, he most certainly might’ve found the team that respects him.

What is your opinion on the same? Tell us in the comments!

Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Joyita Das