Cleveland Browns 2020 free agency preview: Pass or sign
By Greg Newland
As the league new year closes in, let’s peek at some of the possible Cleveland Browns free agency targets and explore whether the team should sign or pass certain targets.
March 18th at 4 p.m. EST is the official start of the new league year, which means NFL free agency! At this point, it appears it may be the only portion of sports that will be happening with NCAA March Madness, NBA, NHL, XFL, and MLB all being halted. Will the Cleveland Browns be spenders or spectators?
The Browns have obvious holes at inside linebacker with the organization deciding to let Joe Schobert walk. There is also an obvious need at offensive tackle with Greg Robinson indicted on drug charges and Chris Hubbard not living up to expectations.
The last big need heading into 2020 has to be the safety position. With Damarious Randall and Eric Murray both set to hit free agency and Morgan Burnett coming off a torn Achilles, upgrades are likely needed at both strong and free safety. Sheldrick Redwine, a rookie in 2019, did show promise last season when forced to play, but is likely another year away from being ready to start in the NFL.
Andrew Berry and Paul DePodesta’s analytical philosophy will likely be much different from the splash signings John Dorsey made in 2019 when he traded for wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and signed defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson.
Analytical franchises have historically thrown heavy dollars at offensive tackles, cornerbacks and quarterbacks. Does this mean Berry will reach to the discount shelf for a linebacker and safety? I certainly hope not as the Browns must continue to be aggressive with a lot of young talent on rookie deals.
Once you sign players like Baker Mayfield and Myles Garrett to long-term deals, you will quickly become cap-strapped and the Browns will be looking to cut salaries versus signing big names in free agency.
Let’s look at some names the Browns should pass on, and names they should sign!