NFL Free Agency Opening Day: Three Bold Browns Predictions

Oct 17, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals nose tackle Dan Williams (92) during the game against the Seattle Seahawks at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Browns Sign Dan Williams

This is one of those players that we have heard very little about. We haven’t heard that any teams were talking to his agent, just that teams were interested in him. The 27 year old Williams has a history as a nose tackle with the Arizona Cardinals. We know he can do it and can do it on a high level. The Cardinals defense was stout with him in there. At this point he is seen as a pure nose, perfect for the Browns. He played in 14 or more games the last three seasons, with all 16 last year. His stats, as is appropriate with the NT position are not impressive, 32 tackles and 1 sack. Yet he did help the Cardinals to the 13th best run defense.

The Browns had the worst run defense in the league last year and are in desperate need of a nose man. Williams seems to fit what they are looking for while also staying within their budget. Terrance Knighton could be another option but he is A) likely to sign with his former coach in Oakland and B) likely to sign for big, big bucks. Signing Williams, much like signing Shorts and Hartline, would fill one of the Browns biggest holes and allow them to go for Best Player Available in the 1st round of the NFL Draft. That could include Danny Shelton or other big lineman still.

Contract – 4 years, $26 million

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