Which Cleveland Browns are on a ‘Prove-It’ season?

‘Over-Paid’ Players

The term over-paid is a bit harsh but there are some players on the current Browns team that didn’t play up to what they’re earning last season.

Chris Hubbard is the most common name mentioned in this area. He signed a five-year $37.5 million contract in the 2018 offseason, filling the spot at right tackle. In four seasons, at Pittsburgh, he started a total of 14 games, only allowing four total sacks.

However, he gave up 8.5 total in 2019. The team finally has its franchise quarterback and if he can’t protect better the team may be looking to upgrade in 2020.

Christian Kirksey is one of the teams best defensive players and is one of the leaders. Of all his abilities as a player, the one he had trouble with was availability, having only played in 7 games in all of 2018.

Kirksey is likely not on a short leash, having the most tackles in the past three seasons combined (325) on the team. But with Joe Schobert’s deal looming, Genard Avery playing well coming off his rookie season and the drafting of Sionne Takitaki and Mack Wilson, the Browns might be looking to the future.

Finally, we come to T.J. Carrie. He’s still a solid corner for this team, but with an $8.9 million cap number attached to it.

The team has its number one cornerback in Denzel Ward and draft pick Greedy Williams has generated plenty of buzz this offseason. Carrie and Terrance Mitchell will likely be competing for snaps but if both provide a similar output, Mitchell comes at a cheaper price. About $5.5 million difference in 2019.

All three of these players will likely go into 2019 as starters, but keep them in mind for next offseason when a lot of tough moves have to be made.