3 players still in playoffs Cleveland Browns should target in free agency

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 08: Jimmie Ward #20 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates defensive stop against the New Orleans Saints in the game at Mercedes Benz Superdome on December 08, 2019 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 08: Jimmie Ward #20 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates defensive stop against the New Orleans Saints in the game at Mercedes Benz Superdome on December 08, 2019 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /
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HOUSTON, TX – OCTOBER 01: Jack Conklin #78 of the Tennessee Titans blocks J.J. Watt #99 of the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX – OCTOBER 01: Jack Conklin #78 of the Tennessee Titans blocks J.J. Watt #99 of the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images) /

Jack Conklin, Tennessee Titans Offensive Tackle

It’s very simple, the Browns had a problem protecting the quarterback this year especially on the edge. Greg Robinson was a turnstile at left tackle and players rotated through at right tackle all year.

Jack Conklin is another young player coming off his rookie contract and will also garner a big payday, playing one of the most valuable positions. Conklin was first team All-Pro as a rookie in 2016 and plays on one of the best offensive lines in the league.

He committed six penalties this year, which is tied for his career high. However, he would be a major upgrade for the Browns. Baker Mayfield looked unsettled in the pocket because he didn’t trust his offensive line, but a player with a pedigree like Conklin can help that.

The number for Conklin will be high, probably around $15 million a year. But with the weapons Cleveland has on offense, time for the quarterback is invaluable.

The Browns offensive line is already good at run blocking, as they led the way for the second leading rusher in the league. Conklin would only contribute to that while solidifying either tackle position, although he is best on the right side. Offensive line should be the top priority this offseason.