Cleveland Browns should sign free agent OT, let draft fall to them

The Cleveland Browns have many options to consider when planning for their offseason. Signing a free agent tackle should top that list.

The Cleveland Browns are in position to address its team needs with many different options. The best tactic for them to take is to sign a starting-caliber offensive tackle at either right or left tackle.

Currently on its roster, there are no starting worthy tackles. No, Chris Hubbard is not a starting right tackle in the NFL as evidence of his play from a season ago. Keeping Baker Mayfield protected has to be this teams No. 1 priority. Mayfield struggled last season, in large part due to the performance of his offensive line.

By signing a starting tackle, the Browns would be in a great spot for the draft as they would have many different options. They simply can let the draft fall to them and still be in position to either take the top tackle left on their board or if a player like Isaiah Simmons falls a bit, the Browns can trade up a few spots and grab the playmaking hybrid linebacker/safety out of Clemson.

The top two tackles that the Browns must consider in free agency are Jack Conklin of the Tennessee Titans or Anthony Castonzo of the Indianapolis Colts.

Conklin would fill the opening at right tackle and at the age of 26, he would require a hefty price tag. Is he a perfect tackle? No. He does have some flaws in his game but he is the top tackle in this year’s free-agent class and would be a major step above anything the Browns have on its roster.

Anthony Castonzo is a seasoned veteran who has been a steady force at left tackle for the Colts during his 132 career starts for them. The 31-year-old still will probably receive a nice sized contract and could be the Browns short-term answer at left tackle for at least a few seasons.

Either player would be a major upgrade for the Cleveland and it would not pigeon-hole the Browns into drafting an offensive tackle at No. 10 overall.