One NFL Free Agent At Each Position Group for the Browns

Dec 14, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; Denver Broncos guard Orlando Franklin (74) talks on the sideline during the fourth quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

OL Orlando Franklin

While fans might want the Browns to sign and draft a tackle to replace Mitchell Schwartz, he hasn’t been terrible. Franklin played well for the Denver Broncos and with them having to figure out things for free agents Demaryius Thomas and Julius Thomas. The Broncos can’t afford to pay everyone on their free agent list and Franklin is the likely one to get free.

The 27 year old Franklin stands at 6’7″ and can maul from either the guard or tackle position. For the Broncos he did so at guard and would give the Browns options that they didn’t have last season. Offensive linemen tend to get overpaid in free agency and the Browns could turn in another direction if Franklin’s price goes high.

Franklin graded out best among all free agent guards according to PFF. Mike Iupati is a more known name but Franklin will get attention in free agency. Playing for a team that likes to pound the ball, instead of passing like Peyton Manning, is something linemen love.

With Franklin at right guard and either Mitchell Schwartz or Michael Bowie at right tackle the Browns would have an offensive line that old school AFC North fans can be proud of.

Other options: Mike Iupati, Byron Bell, Bryan Bulaga

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