BEREA – With the knee injury to linebacker Matt Stewart, the Browns
linebacker corps becomes even thinner in the experience department.
Chaun Thompson, who tracked down Carson Palmer in last week’s game and forced
a fumble, will be counted upon even more to make those types of big plays.
“That type of play is me,” Thompson said. “I do it in practice all the time.
The guys up front had a good push in the middle of the field and they flushed
(Palmer) out of the pocket and I made the play.”
Thompson will make his first start of the season at right outside linebacker.
Thompson had six tackles last week against the Bengals, including a sack. He
also had a pressure, a forced fumble and he broke up a pass.
Thompson is in his third year after being the team’s second-round draft
choice in 2003 out of West Texas A & M. Thompson had 80 tackles last season with
2.5 sacks and a fumble recovery. Thompson started 13 games last season.
Thompson’s speed and athleticism is expected to help him in the 3-4 scheme.
“Chaun has always flashed,” Romeo Crennel said. “He’s got good abilities and
can chase. On his chase play he caused a fumble. He’s learning the defense and I
still believe he’ll be a good player for us.”
With Stewart injured, Thompson will be counted upon to make plays.
“I’m anxious to get more opportunities,” Thompson said.
Many felt Thompson was drafted too highly by Butch Davis and Thompson has
been motivated to show that he belongs.
“I’ve been trying to prove that since day one,” he said. “That continues to
motivate me and drive me.”