Cleveland Browns: Is Gerald McCoy a realistic option?
By Randy Gurzi
The Cleveland Browns are being linked to defensive tackle Gerald McCoy who is rumored to be on the trading block. Does a pairing between the two sides make sense?
Cleveland Browns general manager John Dorsey added a lot of talent this offseason. He brought in defensive end Olivier Vernon, wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr., and defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson — just to name a few of the big additions.
Those roster changes suddenly have the Browns contending for the AFC North crown, and they’re now the favorite in many people’s eyes. Even with that being the case, Dorsey might not be done adding talent to the roster.
According to Steve Doerschuk of the Canton Republic, Dorsey is believed to have interest in adding Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Gerald McCoy. Following the 2019 NFL Draft, the Bucs are rumored to be willing to listen to offers, and Dorsey could pull the trigger on another blockbuster.
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The real question is whether or not he should.
Looking at strictly talent, McCoy would be a phenomenal add. The big D-Tackle has made six Pro Bowls in his career while racking up 54.5 sacks since joining the team in 2010.
While all that looks great, McCoy is now 31 years of age and has three seasons and roughly $33 million left on his contract extension that he signed in 2014 — according to Spotrac.com. This is similar to the contract the team just paid to Sheldon Richardson in the offseason, which would tie an awful lot of money into the interior of the line.
It would also likely force Larry Ogunjobi into a reserve role. While that would be incredible depth, Ogunjobi did break out in 2019 and it could be argued that at this point in his career, he has more upside. He also may not be thrilled with being told he’s being benched following his breakout campaign, which is completely understandable.
In addition to the age and what it could do to the morale, McCoy is also not happy with his contract. While the total money likely isn’t the problem, the fact that none of it is guaranteed is. While they may be able to restructure and offer more guarantees with less overall pay, there is also a health concern.
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McCoy is at the age where injuries start to pile up and he hasn’t played a full 16 games since 2013. With all that being said, the idea of adding a big-name player like McCoy may sound more exciting than the reality would be. This is probably one move that Dorsey should pass on.