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Cleveland Browns biggest needs and potential free agents to target

By Dan Justik

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 16: Anthony Barr #55 of the Minnesota Vikings reacts after sacking Ryan Tannehill #17 of the Miami Dolphins in the third quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 16, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 16: Anthony Barr #55 of the Minnesota Vikings reacts after sacking Ryan Tannehill #17 of the Miami Dolphins in the third quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 16, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /
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EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – NOVEMBER 25: Trent Brown #77 of the New England Patriots in action against the New York Jets during their game at MetLife Stadium on November 25, 2018 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – NOVEMBER 25: Trent Brown #77 of the New England Patriots in action against the New York Jets during their game at MetLife Stadium on November 25, 2018 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

Offensive Tackle

The Cleveland Browns offensive line was not as big of a problem in the second half of the season as it was in he first half season. The Browns offensive line allowed the fewest quarterback hits in the second half of the season in the league.

The Browns have one of the best interior offensive lines in the NFL. However, the main issues came at the tackle positions. Greg Robinson had the best season of his career, as he was solid in pass protection, but had issues against the run. Chris Hubbard had an up-and-down season at right tackle, and may not return due to his large contract.

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The Browns biggest goal should be to protect Mayfield. Although the Browns tackles showed potential, they need to be certain that Mayfield has a solid offensive line in front of him.

Trent Brown

Trent Brown was one of the biggest surprises for the Patriots this season, cementing the left tackle position for New England. The 25-year-old is a massive presence at 6-foot-8 and 380 pounds, but is surprisingly athletic for his size.

Brown had an up-and down season in 2018, as he was able to make big blocks while also allowing pressure. According to Pro Football Focus, he allowed 35 total pressures, including three sacks.

Although Brown was not a top-tier offensive tackle, he has experience playing both tackle positions. The Patriots have Isaiah Wynn and Marcus Cannon, so they will likely let Brown walk. Depending on how the Browns feel about Hubbard, Brown might be an upgrade.

Daryl Williams

Daryl Williams has been a regular starter for the Carolina Panthers, but lost all of 2018 due to a knee injury. However, Williams was one of the best offensive tackles in 2017. Williams started every game in 2017, allowing 39 pressures and four sacks.

His knee will be a question mark and teams will need to be comfortable with the injury he suffered this season. However, if they are, a team can land a player that has the potential of being one of the best right tackles in the league. The Browns should not expect Hubbard and Robinson to have a similar season in 2019, so they need to examine every option.

Ja’Wuan James

Ja’Wuan James will likely be one of the most sought after offensive tackles in free agency. At 26-years-old, James is entering the prime of his career and is coming off the best season he has had in the league.

James started 15 games for the Dolphins this season, allowing 26 pressures, the lowest of his career, and seven sacks. James has primarily played right tackle after spending time at left tackle his rookie season. It will likely take a big deal to land James, but it may pay off as he enters the prime of his career.

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