What happened: Cleveland Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger is preparing for his second season as the defense's 'green-dot' playcaller following a 156-tackle rookie campaign. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers secured tight end Darnell Washington with a four-year, $42 million contract extension, prioritizing his role in heavy blocking schemes.
Why it matters: Schwesinger's development is critical for a Browns unit transitioning after the Myles Garrett trade. In Pittsburgh, the investment in Washington signals a commitment to a physical identity under new head coach Mike McCarthy and quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
By the numbers: Schwesinger recorded 156 tackles as the 2025 Defensive Rookie of the Year. Washington's extension includes $21 million guaranteed through 2030. Pittsburgh utilized '13 personnel' on a league-high 22% of snaps in 2025.
What to watch: Training camps will determine if Deshaun Watson retains the starting QB job in Cleveland and how Baltimore resolves its four-way battle for the starting center position.