Full list of Cleveland Browns set to be free agents in 2019
By Dan Justik
Restricted Free Agents
Restricted free agents are players that accrued three or fewer seasons of service time. If his current team tenders a qualifying offer, they have the right to match any offer that the free agent accepts from another team. If they do not match, they will receive a draft pick as compensation.
Briean Boddy-Calhoun
Briean Boddy-Calhoun played in all 16 games for the Browns in 2018, starting in eight. The 25-year-old was used as both a nickel cornerback and safety. He struggled at cornerback, as he had issues making plays while in man coverage.
In 2018, he made 56 tackles, one forced fumble, and two passes defended. The Browns will likely tender a qualifying offer, as his versatility is a valuable commodity. If a team looks past Boddy-Calhoun’s 2018 at nickel cornerback, they may offer him a contract that the Browns would not want to match. It also will come down to who the Browns hire as their defensive coordinator and if they feel Boddy-Calhoun can fit in their defense.
Rashard Higgins
Rashard Higgins had the best season of his career in 2018, as the wide receiver was able to build chemistry with quarterback Baker Mayfield. In 13 games, Higgins caught 39 passes for 572 yards and four touchdowns.
Higgins and Mayfield have a connection, as the two were able to connect for some big plays. Although Higgins does not have the speed to make him a vertical threat, his solid route running helps him create separation in the intermediate part of the field.
The Browns will certainly tender Higgins, and the two sides will likely come together on a multi-year contract. His connection with Mayfield will also play a big role in negotiations, as Higgins proved to be one of Mayfield’s safety nets.
Orson Charles
Orson Charles played in 13 games for the Browns, catching three passes for 13 yards. He spent time playing tight end and fullback, while also playing on special teams. He was put on injured reserve following Week 14 due to an ankle injury.
Juston Burris
Juston Burris played in eight games in 2018, four for the Browns. He played exclusively on special teams, making two tackles.