Maliek Collins backed as underrated interior defensive tackle

Veteran lineman anchors front after August PUP activation

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 54m1 min read

Maliek Collins is NOT underrated https://t.co/lSmlyOWlB8 Via @Browns on X

What happened: Maliek Collins drew public backing Thursday for his interior line play during the 2026 regular season. The veteran defensive tackle cleared his physical on August 24 and returned to practice on August 25 after being placed on the active/PUP list on July 23.

Why it matters: Interior pass-rush disruption keeps opposing offenses from sliding protection exclusively toward outside rushers. Collins has helped stabilize the middle of the defensive front through October even when the unit operated shorthanded.

By the numbers: Per ESPN (as of Sept. 29, 2026), Collins recorded 25 tackles and 6.5 sacks across 12 games during the 2025 season. 29, 2026).

What to watch: Collins continues his 2026 regular-season campaign as the schedule moves into late October.

Sources

@Browns 2026-10-22T19:03:15.725450+00:00

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