The Cleveland Browns had an amazing first day of free agency, which was a nice change of pace after a rough offseason in 2016.
Well, yesterday went well.
The Cleveland Browns made some major moves at the outset of free agency yesterday, with the most notable being a trade that brought Brock Osweiler to Cleveland, although he may not be here for long.
The Browns not only made that blockbuster trade, but also bolstered the offensive line to make it one of the best in all of football, at least on paper.
It was in stark contrast to the beginning of free agency in 2016 when the Browns immediately lost four starters on the first day, setting up the worst season in franchise history.
The front office likely entered last season knowing it would be a disaster, but it is nice that the team is trending back toward being competitive in 2017.
And this is just the first day of free agency. There is still plenty of time for more players to be signed, and then comes the NFL Draft. With 11 picks and plenty of assets, the Browns could make some even bigger moves at the end of April.
The team still needs a quarterback, unless they plan on actually keeping Osweiler. It doesn’t seem likely, but it may not hurt to have his voice in the quarterbacks room for one year since they have to pay him regardless.
It was a fun start, and things should only continue to be interesting as more moves are made. Let’s take a look at what happened yesterday and more in today’s edition of the Daily Dawg Tags.
Cleveland Browns news:
Cleveland Browns off to a fast start on the first day of free agency
"The Harvard degrees are paying off well in the Cleveland Browns’ front office."
Cleveland Browns make a smart, surprising trade for Brock Osweiler
"Before you panic, let’s break down the trade the Cleveland Browns made to acquire Brock Osweiler, as explained by Adam Schefter."
NFL Free Agency 2017: Recapping the Browns’ big day (cleveland.com)
"The NFL’s free agency period officially began at 4 p.m. Thursday. It also marked the beginning of the official 2017 league year."
What to make of the unprecedented Osweiler trade (ESPN.com)
"The Cleveland Browns and Houston Texans completed a stunning trade Thursday, and it might be one of the rare moves in which both teams win."
NFL news:
NFL free agency grades: Instant analysis (FanSided)
"Every year, teams lavishly spend on free agents when the new league year begins."
Alshon Jeffery, Eagles agree to one-year deal (NFL.com)
"The Philadelphia Eagles snagged the biggest receiver in the free-agency pond."
Report: Kirk Cousins will sign tag, expects to play 2017 in Washington (PFT)
"Washington quarterback Kirk Cousins appears set to stay put and make $23.9 million in 2017."