LB Carson Schwesinger's rookie season continues to stand out among those in his fellow rookie class.
The Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA) announced on Tuesday that Schwesinger was named the 2025 Defensive Rookie of the Year. Schwesinger is the first player in Cleveland franchise history to be selected Defensive Rookie of the Year by the PFWA.
Schwesinger played an integral role in the success of the Browns' defense during his rookie season. He wore the green dot for the Browns throughout the 2025 season, acting as the signal caller for the defense. His success during training camp earned him the opportunity to wear the green dot, and Schwesinger demonstrated continued command of the defense with his ownership of the responsibility.
From Week 1 of the season, Schwesinger showcased his positive impact on the defense. He recorded his first career sack in Week 3 against the Packers and his first career interception in Week 8 against the Patriots. Schwesinger finished the 2025 season with a team-high146 tackles and added 2.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, nine quarterback hits, two interceptions and three passes defensed.
"He's the same every day, which is the ultimate compliment to any human," linebackers coach Jason Tarver said in December 2025. "And he just keeps wanting to get better and make plays just like we talked about. What's his favorite play? The next one. That's how he lived all year long and really proud of him."
Schwesinger led all rookies this season with his 146 tackles and 11 tackles for loss, and was tied for second with two interceptions. He recorded double-digit tackles in seven games during the 2025 season, including a stretch of six consecutive games – the longest streak in the NFL this season. His seven double-digit tackle games were the most among NFL rookies.
His 146 tackles are the most by a Browns rookie since the team's return in 1999, while his two interceptions are the most by a Browns rookie since CB Denzel Ward recorded three in 2018.
