Browns: Are more cuts coming?

Oct 27, 2013; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles (25) is tackled by Cleveland Browns defensive end Ahtyba Rubin (71) in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won the game 23-17. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reported this morning (28 February) that Cleveland Browns Defensive end Ahtyba Rubin may be the next player to see the door in the Berea. Per a Florio source, Rubin who signed a four-year deal in 2011 worth $26.5 million may be asked to restructure his deal or be released. Rubin is entering the final season of his current deal with a base salary of $6.6 million. If the Browns choose to release Rubin they will save $6.8 million against the cap heading into the new league year. This news comes just days after the Browns released long tenured Inside Linebacker D’Qwell Jackson.

ESPN Cleveland’s Tony Grossi reported this morning that some possible surprise cuts to the current Browns roster could include DE Athyba Rubin as well as Quarterback Brian Hoyer, Safety T.J. Ward, Right Tackle Mitchell Schwartz, Inside Linebacker Craig Robertson, and Cornerback Leon McFadden.  Grossi also reported that current Browns Quarterback Brandon Weeden, Quarterback Jason Campbell, Offensive Guard Shawn Lauvao, Wide Receiver Greg Little, Wide Receiver Davone Bess are likely as good as gone.

The possibility of another round of cuts may not go over well with the fan base, especially since Hoyer and Ward are fan favorites. Although we have no insight into the Browns front office, these cuts may allow the Browns to go after necessary upgrades at key positions in free agency as well as lock up Cornerback Joe Haden, and Center Alex Mack to long-term deals.