At 3-7, the Browns have a lot of issues that will need attention in the offseason.

The biggest of these is the inability to stop teams from running up the middle on them.

Indeed, when a team is able to hand off the ball and run it down your throat through the center and guard spots, you have no chance to win. It’s the simplest play in football. It is virtually a risk-free play for the offense.

Understanding that, then, the Browns’ biggest need is at defensive tackle. They need to go out in free agency and the NFL Draft and find plenty of help. Right now, they might not have a tackle who could make another roster in the league.

Yes, they also need help at linebacker and at wide receiver, but not as much as they need it at defensive tackle.

If the Browns want to avoid having another disappointing season in 2023, then they have to find big-time help there. Head coach Kevin Stefanski’s job security may defend on it.

Steve King

Browns activate DE Chase Winovich, place G Michael Dunn on IR

BEREA, Ohio — The Cleveland Browns have activated DE Chase Winovich from injured reserve. The team has also placed G Michael Dunn (back) on injured reserve. In addition, the team elevated LB Jermaine Carter Jr. and S Mike Brown from the practice squad.

Winovich, a fourth-year pro who was acquired via trade with New England this year, recorded one tackle in two games this season before sustaining a hamstring injury. He was placed on injured reserve on Sept. 20 and was designated for return on Nov. 7. He will wear No. 69.

Dunn has appeared in eight games with two starts this season.

Carter is in his fifth NFL season out of Maryland. Originally a fifth-round selection by Carolina in 2018, Carter has appeared in 66 career games, including last week’s game at Miami. He has notched 163 career tackles, half a sack and two fumble recoveries. Carter will wear No. 40.

Brown is a rookie out of Miami (Ohio). Originally signed by the Vikings as an undrafted free agent, he spent time this season on Green Bay’s and Minnesota’s practice squads before joining the Browns’ practice squad on Oct. 25. Brown will wear No. 48.

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