The campaign to add talent, youth, speed and athleticism to the Browns' secondary didn't end with the selection of CB Joe Haden and SS T.J. Ward in the first two rounds of the 2010 draft. It has merely become more subtle.
Browns GM Tom Heckert sought to bolster the unit through late-round picks and free agency. It's too early to judge the success of his efforts, but preseason contributions indicate he might have uncovered a few diamonds in the rough.
FS Eric Hagg has emerged as a starter. It was anticipated that that the seventh-round pick from 2011 would compete for the job with veteran Usama Young, but he immediately claimed the position vacated by the loss of Mike Adams to Denver in free agency. Hagg was a ball-hawk at Nebraska and has also shown a penchant for picking off passes in training camp.
The Browns also hope they struck it rich with 2012 seventh-rounder Trevin Wade, who has been the defensive surprise of the preseason. Wade is particularly adept at playing the slot receiver and is starting inside.
The loss of Dimitri Patterson (ankle) has provided an opportunity for Wade and 2011 fifth-round pick Buster Skrine. Skrine has emerged as the third outside corner with his aggressive play. He has consistently blanketed receivers since arriving in Cleveland last season. Coach Pat Shurmur has been impressed.
"He's a feisty guy who challenges on every play," Shurmur said. "There's no question that Buster can play outside. He has the ability to cover and is fast enough to go downfield. He knows how to play the schemes whether he's in a 2-on-1 or in a zone or whatever."
Skrine has received enough reps inside to grow at that spot, but defensive coordinator Dick Jauron said he's being groomed as an outside corner. He could eventually replace veteran starter Sheldon Brown, whom many expected to be moved to free safety in the offseason. Skrine is trying to become adept both inside and out.
"Playing inside there are quicker throws closer to the quarterback," Skrine said. "Your technique has to be really sound inside and outside, but inside you know you have the safety coming over the top. If you play like outside like you're going to have help every time, you're not as aggressive."
Shurmur is certainly giving no indication that he's considering replacing Brown, who has lost a step in recent years and plays further off receivers to compensate.
"Being a veteran, if he has limitations, he has a way to not make them show up," Shurmur said. "He's a very smart player. He knows the player he's playing against and he knows the scheme better this year."
The wild card in the DB derby is second-year SS David Sims, who is tied for the NFL lead with two preseason interceptions. Sims is listed at third string but could make the final roster if he continues his development.
Stay dialed in on the Browns on Twitter at @CBSSportsNFLCLE throughout the season with on-site updates from CBSSports.com RapidReports correspondent Marty Gitlin.