The Cleveland Browns young secondary was at the center of controversy when the season began for its inconsistent play. But now the unit is the toast of Cleveland as they continue to improve as the season progresses.

The Browns defense has made significant strides since the season opener against Dallas. They're ranked seventh in the NFL in points allowed (17.6) and 10th in passing yards allowed with 195 per game.

A major player in the team's success on defense has no doubt been second-year cornerback Eric Wright.

The Browns 2007 second-round draft pick, Wright has elevated his game and has come into his own as a pro. He is the premiere playmaker in the secondary, making big plays when they count.

Wright has three passes defended inside the red zone, and two interceptions, with one returned for a touchdown. Wright has a total of three interceptions on the season along with 30 tackles, 28 of which are solo. His game is steadily improving.

"I look at each day as an opportunity to get better," Wright said Monday, Oct. 27 in a telephone interview. "I feel like I have a lot of upside and a lot of potential. Now it's just trying to focus every day on getting better and maximize my opportunity and potential. I'm a good player looking to be a great player one day."

With a year under his belt, Wright has made a smooth transition into the pros and the game is starting to come to him.

"Meetings, training camp, I've been through it," he said. "I have a little more experience and I feel a lot more comfortable being out there on the field. The plays are coming and this year is a lot easier."

Wright is a tight man-to-man coverage corner and with his 4.3/40 speed can run with any receiver in the league.

He is a good blitzer, with tremendous speed off the corner and has the ability to charge quarterbacks forcing them into making poor decisions.

Wright has all the tools and ability to become a Pro Bowl caliber corner and works hard at his craft.

"I have extremely high expectations," Wright said. "I know my ability and all the hard work and effort that I put into it. My main focus is to continue to progress and make plays for my team.

"A lot of the personal things always come as a result of your team's success. As long as I play my part and my role on the team, my personal goal will fall in line from there."

Wright said the defense as a whole is trying to come together and form their own identity by making plays on the field. And by the looks of how the team played against Jacksonville on Sunday, the Browns definitely appear to be on the 'Wright' track.

Carlos "Big C" Holmes covers the NFL for the Dayton Daily News.