What happened: Cleveland Browns defensive end Jared Verse stated Thursday that his defensive struggles this season have been mental rather than physical, noting he met with a team psychiatrist to work past a sack slump. Browns defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg addressed Verse's comments as the defense looks to sharpen its pass rush.
Why it matters: Cleveland sits at 5-4 and holds the eighth seed in the AFC following a 23-22 road loss to the New Orleans Saints. The Browns stood pat at the trade deadline, making consistent pass-rush production from Verse essential as they chase a postseason berth in a tight conference race.
By the numbers: Verse has recorded 20 tackles in 2026 through nine games as Cleveland enters Week 11 sitting at 5-4.
What to watch: Cleveland looks to halt a two-game losing streak and stabilize its position in the AFC wild-card picture.