Browns defensive coordinator hoping to return next season

By TOM WITHERS The Associated Press

FILE - Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Joe Woods celebrates a sack during the second half of the team's NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Cleveland, Sunday, Nov. 27, 2022. Criticized all season for a unit that underperformed, dealt with injuries and didn't always complement Cleveland's offense, Woods said Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023, he wants to come back next season. “I hope I get the opportunity, but that’s not my decision,” said Woods, one of Kevin Stefanski's first hires three seasons ago. (AP Photo/David Richard, File)[ASSOCIATED PRESS/David Richard]

BEREA, Ohio (AP) — Browns defensive coordinator Joe Woods wants another chance. Under fire most of this season for a unit that underperformed and didn’t always complement Cleveland’s offense, Woods said he’s hoping to come back for a fourth season. He may not get the chance. Woods was one of coach Kevin Stefanski’s first hires three seasons ago. The Browns defense has struggled to stop the run all season. There’s been some improvement down the stretch, but maybe not enough to save Woods. The Browns face the Pittsburgh Steelers in the season finale.