Cleveland Browns: Players to watch during training camp
By Dan Justik
E.J. Gaines
The Browns rebuilt their secondary this off-season, with the most work being done in the cornerback room. Cleveland signed E.J. Gaines to a one-year, $4 million prove it deal after Gaines did not receive the interest that he was expecting to get in free agency.
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Last season, Gaines had a very strong year in his only season in Buffalo after being a part of the Sammy Watkins trade. In 11 games for the Bills, Gaines made 59 tackles, three forced fumbles, one interception, and nine passes defended.
Prior to playing in Buffalo, Gaines spent three seasons with the Rams. During his time with the Rams, Gaines played in Gregg Williams’ aggressive press-man defense. But in that scheme, Gaines was inconsistent. But once he was put into Sean McDermott’s zone defense, Gaines shined.
Gaines will be battling with T.J. Carrie to win the second starting cornerback job. Gaines will need to prove that he can maintain his level of play in Williams’ defense. He must be confident that he can as he will be trying to earn a big contract at the end of this season.
If Gaines plays the way he did last season in camp, the starting job could very well be his. But if he struggles to play press-man coverage, it could be a rough season for Gaines.