Here are the top 10 defensive players in the history of the Cleveland Browns by most tackles (combined solo and assists), with statistics accumulated only during their time with the Browns:
### 1. **Clay Matthews Jr. - 1,430 tackles**
- **Summary**: Clay Matthews Jr. is the Browns' all-time leader in tackles, amassing 1,430 over his career with the team from 1978 to 1993. Known for his durability and versatility, Matthews played both inside and outside linebacker positions. He was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and played in 278 games for the Browns, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise with his consistent performance and leadership.
### 2. **D'Qwell Jackson - 824 tackles**
- **Summary**: D'Qwell Jackson played for the Browns from 2006 to 2013, recording 824 tackles. Jackson led the NFL in tackles in 2008 and was known for his exceptional tackling ability and leadership on the field. He was a cornerstone of the Browns' defense during his tenure, providing stability and production in the middle of the defense.
### 3. **Mike Johnson - 757 tackles**
- **Summary**: Mike Johnson played linebacker for the Browns from 1986 to 1993, accumulating 757 tackles. Johnson was a two-time Pro Bowl selection and a key player in the Browns' defense during the late 1980s and early 1990s. He was known for his tackling prowess and leadership, helping the Browns reach the AFC Championship Game in 1986 and 1989.
### 4. **Andra Davis - 751 tackles**
- **Summary**: Andra Davis played for the Browns from 2002 to 2008, totaling 751 tackles. A reliable and consistent presence at linebacker, Davis was often the team's leading tackler. He was known for his work ethic, leadership, and ability to make plays in the middle of the field.
### 5. **Jim Houston - 625 tackles**
- **Summary**: Jim Houston played for the Browns from 1960 to 1972, recording 625 tackles. A versatile linebacker, Houston was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and a key member of the 1964 NFL Championship team. He was known for his tackling ability and defensive skills, contributing significantly to the Browns' success during his career.
### 6. **Chip Banks - 602 tackles**
- **Summary**: Chip Banks played linebacker for the Browns from 1982 to 1986, amassing 602 tackles. Banks was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1982 and earned four Pro Bowl selections. He was known for his athleticism, tackling ability, and playmaking skills, making him one of the standout defensive players of his era.
### 7. **Thom Darden - 589 tackles**
- **Summary**: Thom Darden played safety for the Browns from 1972 to 1981, recording 589 tackles. Known for his tackling and ball-hawking skills, Darden holds the franchise record for interceptions. He was selected to the Pro Bowl in 1978 and was a consistent force in the Browns' secondary, contributing to both the run and pass defense.
### 8. **Eddie Johnson - 579 tackles**
- **Summary**: Eddie Johnson, a linebacker, played for the Browns from 1981 to 1990, recording 579 tackles. Known for his hard-hitting style and aggressive play, Johnson was a key player in the Browns' defense throughout the 1980s. He was a fan favorite for his intensity and dedication on the field.
### 9. **Joe Haden - 387 tackles**
- **Summary**: Joe Haden, a cornerback, played for the Browns from 2010 to 2016, totaling 387 tackles. Known for his coverage skills and tackling ability, Haden was a two-time Pro Bowl selection with the Browns. He was a cornerstone of the Browns' secondary during his tenure and continued his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, maintaining a high level of play.
### 10. **Bob Golic - 345 tackles**
- **Summary**: Bob Golic played as a defensive tackle and linebacker for the Browns from 1982 to 1988, recording 345 tackles. He was known for his versatility and toughness on the field, earning three Pro Bowl selections. Golic was a key figure in the Browns' defense, contributing both as a run-stopper and pass rusher, and was instrumental in the team's playoff runs during the 1980s.