Cleveland Browns: Get to know the new free agents
By Clay Goodwin
Case Keenum, quarterback
The Case Keenum signing had a lot less buzz around it than the other acquisitions. Keenum was brought in to be a serviceable backup behind Baker Mayfield in case things go wrong. Keenum can help develop Mayfield behind the scenes, and also come in and help the Browns win a game if need be.
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Keenum has not had much success as a starting quarterback, except for one season with the Vikings. In 2017, Keenum was 11-3 as a starter and helped Minnesota get to the NFC title game. Kevin Stefanski was Keenum’s quarterback coach in Minnesota which is a possible reason for the connection and signing.
The contract is said to be for three years, worth $18 million. That seems a little steep for a backup quarterback, and Browns fans surely wish it was for less, but if he can provide veteran mentorship to Mayfield for development, and be a capable backup if called upon, then he is worth the money.
He certainly boosts the talent in the quarterback’s room. Last year, the backups behind Mayfield were Garrett Gilbert and Drew Stanton. Neither of which would draw confidence from the Cleveland fans if called upon to win a game.
Keenum gives the Browns a safety valve. This is an under-the-radar signing, that could prove to be a good decision for Cleveland.