What happened: Jared Verse remains without a sack or forced fumble while struggling to generate backfield pressure. The edge rusher has faced mounting scrutiny while attempting to replace Myles Garrett along the defensive front.

Why it matters: Cleveland remade its defensive identity after acquiring Verse in the blockbuster trade that sent Garrett away. Sustained production off the edge remains critical for the defense to disrupt opposing passers and maintain postseason contention.

What to watch: Coaches will monitor Verse's pass-rush reps and pressure rates as the defense adjusts its front-line packages ahead of the trade deadline.