Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II made a monumental impact with his first career interception, perfectly timed to contribute to one of the biggest wins in what could be an unforgettable season for the team. In his 34th game, after almost 2,000 snaps and 928 days with the Browns, Newsome's interception proved to be a game-changer.
Kevin Stefanski, the Browns' head coach, couldn't contain his excitement and described the moment as "awesome." Newsome's interception occurred on a second-and-8 throw from Lamar Jackson, shortly after Deshaun Watson connected with Elijah Moore for a touchdown, narrowing the Ravens' lead to 31-24.
Jackson intended to target fullback Patrick Ricard, but defensive end Ogbo Okoronkwo deflected the ball into the air. Newsome seized the opportunity and swiftly intercepted the pass.
Reflecting on the play, Newsome shared, “I’ve never seen the ball go that slow,” Newsome said. “When I saw the ball in the air, I was like, I have to go get it.” Jackson acknowledged the deflection, stating, “The guy just tipped the ball,” Jackson said. "Saw Pat was open in the flat. The guy tipped the ball, and the ball just flew 10 yards in the air. (Newsome) made a great play on the ball and just scored.”
Newsome's interception ignited a thrilling sequence as he evaded Jackson's reach along the sideline and sprinted into the endzone, bringing the Browns within a point. Although kicker Dustin Hopkins missed the potential game-tying PAT, he made up for it later.
Newsome almost missed the game due to a groin injury that had sidelined him in the previous week's victory over the Cardinals. The Browns took precautions by elevating cornerback A.J. Green from the practice squad. However, Newsome managed to play despite reduced expectations for his reps.
With Denzel Ward sidelined by a neck injury, Newsome faced a larger workload than anticipated. He rose to the challenge, stating, "I had to step up for the team."
Linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. expressed his admiration, saying, “I’ve been begging for him to catch his first interception,” linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. said. “Nothing better than getting a pick six on your first one in a huge division game like this. Proud of him, proud of the way he’s been battling, obviously fighting through injury to be out there with his teammates.”
Newsome, selected as the 26th overall pick in the 2021 draft, has experienced a mix of successes and challenges since joining the Browns. He has navigated finding his role in a competitive defensive backfield and even expressed dissatisfaction with playing in the slot. However, under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, Newsome has embraced his position and embodied the team's desire to exude confidence and dominance.
For Newsome, who is only 23 years old, securing his first interception in such a crucial moment must have been a tremendous relief. Reflecting on the play, he said, “Everything just went silent and the first thing that just came to my mind was, thank the Lord,” Newsome said. “I said to them before, man, I didn’t know I was going to be able to play this week. Honestly, at the beginning of the week I really couldn’t run still. So just all praise to the man above.”
Newsome's interception exemplified a defensive performance that may not have been flawless but rose to the occasion when it mattered most. It granted the Browns the opportunity to secure their first victory in Baltimore since 2019.
Stefanski summarized the defensive display, stating, “You saw a defense that was just going to go make a play however you could do it,” Stefanski said. “Whether it’s going to be rushing the passer, or ball’s in the air, and it belongs to us. No bigger play than Greg’s touchdown.”
