Cleveland Browns: 5 ways to become contenders in 2019

Sign Avery Williamson, LB, New York Jets

Watch any game for the Cleveland Browns and it’s easy to see that there are some issues in the middle of their defense. It’s hard to figure out because Joe Schobert and Christian Kirksey are both solid players, but there seems to always be a hole in the middle for tight ends to just run to and find an easy catch.

Dorsey understood there was a problem here and he was able to land Mychal Kendricks in free agency to try and address this area of concern. That didn’t last as Kendricks was released once it was discovered he was indicted on insider trading charges.

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Before his release, the plan was to use Kendricks in a rotation with Kirksey, Schobert, and Jamie Collins. Keeping all four fresh presented a massive problem for offenses, and that plan was actually really good.

Here we again try to get that plan in motion, but this time with the addition of Avery Williamson who currently plays for the New York Jets. The former Tennessee Titans linebacker came to the Jets on a one-year deal and has had his best season as a pro with 115 tackles, three sacks, and a pick.

Williamson likely played himself into a much better contract and should be looked at by the Browns. He would most likely find his way into the starting lineup and has the ability to play both the Mike and Will linebacker spots — which could also be said of Schobert.

Using versatile players like that could only improve the defense and make them a better team overall, which makes looking at Williamson seem like a good move.