Post Free Agency: What the Cleveland Browns Still Need
By Shane Carter
Kick/ Punt Returner
Right now, Antonio Callaway or Duke Johnson would be the likely return man for Cleveland. Not that either one couldn’t do it, I think the team would rather have someone be a full-time return man ala Devin Hester.
Since the Browns (will) have three capable running backs in Chubb, Hunt, and Johnson. Expect it to be a receiver who will be the team’s fifth or sixth string receiver who’s main focus is being a returner.
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Since receiver is no longer a big need, but depth would be nice, it’ll likely come from a day three pick. Players like Penny Hart, Mecole Hardman or even someone like KaVonte Turpin. Not a major need but one that will likely be addressed.
Strong Safety
This is the teams most pressing, need-to-address position in the draft. After the Odell Beckham Jr. trade sent an improved Jabril pepper to New York, it put a huge hole in the spot next to Damarious Randall.
It was a little surprising that the team didn’t sign a free agent who could refill the spot like Landon Collins or Tyran Matthieu. Especially considering that this year’s safety class is not very deep.
However, the team probably realizes that that may be the biggest hole in the roster and will likely be the second round target. A player like Taylor Rapp, Nasir Adderley, Deonte Thompson or Johnathan Abram makes plenty of sense, assuming they’re available at 49 overall.