Cleveland Browns: 2016 free agency guide

Mitchell Schwartz, Right Tackle

After being selected in the second round out of California in 2012, Mitchell Schwartz has been an instant starting right tackle for the Browns. Schwartz’ solid play has often been overlooked because he plays opposite Joe Thomas, however, over his four seasons with the Browns Schwartz has improved each year to become one of the top right tackles in the league.

Schwartz is coming off his best season as a pro as he was ranked as one of the top right tackles in both the run game and in pass protection by Pro Football Focus. Schwartz will be a hot commodity on the open market, as many teams don’t have the stability Schwartz brings at the right tackle position. Schwartz is looking to be the highest paid right tackle and it would be best for the Browns to invest that money and keep a solid piece of their offensive line together.

Estimated yearly salary: $8.5 million

Alex Mack, Center

Alex Mack opted out of the remainder of his contract to test the open free agent market. After the season Mack was very honest in saying he was sick of losing and wanted to play for a winner. Many believe Mack’s days in Cleveland are over, but the Browns still have a chance to retain the three-time Pro Bowler. Joe Thomas bought into Hue Jackson’s blueprint for the future, and having Thomas buy in is significant in keeping Mack as it has been reported that it would be tough for Mack to leave his longtime teammate.

Like Schwartz, Mack is going to receive a lot of interest on the open market. Resigning Mack would be crucial in keeping one of the best overall offensive line units together and allow the team to fill in other needs. The Browns might have to outbid other teams for Mack, but his services are beyond worth it.

Estimated yearly salary: $8-9.5 million

Tashaun Gipson, Free Safety

Tashaun Gipson had a disappointing 2015 season following his Pro Bowl campaign in 2014. Gipson battled injuries throughout the 2015 season and didn’t give the secondary the boost it needed. However, Gipson has proven to be a ball hawking safety and should receive plenty of interest on the open market.

Gipson was vocal last week saying that he wasn’t “too hopeful” that he’ll be resigned by the Browns. However, with a player with Gipson’s talent it would be smart for the Browns to strike a deal with their starting free safety.

Estimated yearly salary: $3-5 million

Travis Benjamin, Wide Receiver

Travis Benjamin is coming off a career year with the Browns where he recorded 68 receptions for 966 yards and five touchdowns. In the process, he emerged as the Browns’ No. 1 receiver and became an elite deep threat option. However, with the Browns other key free agents he isn’t the team’s top priority.

Benjamin would make a great fit in Hue Jackson’s offense and once again cause problems for opposing defenses. The Browns have negotiated with Benjamin but have yet to reach a new deal. Benjamin is looking for starting receiver money and the Browns have been reluctant to give that to him.

Benjamin has become one of the games best deep threats with his speed, but his size remains a factor in contract negotiation. At 5-foot-10 and 175 pounds, Benjamin is limited in what he can do as a receiver and undersized receivers usually don’t break the bank in the open market. The Browns seem to still be in a favorable position to sign Benjamin but the team might have to wait as Benjamin tests the open market.

Update: Benjamin is reportedly signing with the San Diego Chargers

Estimated yearly salary: $3-4.5 million

Next: Defensive players the Browns should target