Next moves for the Cleveland Browns in free agency
By Greg Newland
Andrew Berry was active in the first few days of free agency on the offensive side of the ball. What moves will he make next to fill out a depleted defense?
The Cleveland Browns were active early and often the first few days of free agency, signing three needs on offense and trading for an additional piece. The Browns spent $104 million in just two days, however, Andrew Berry did it responsibly at key positions.
Each contract was also strategically front-loaded to keep the Browns flexible in future on cap space. The Browns also traded a seventh-round pick for a top-rated fullback that fits the Kevin Stefanski system perfectly.
With major voids at offensive tackle, backup quarterback, tight end and fullback now filled, it’s time for Berry to focus on the defensive side of the ball. While the offensive appears to be loaded with talent, ready to help Baker Mayfield shine in year three, the defense still needs additional at all three levels.
Currently, Sheldrick Redwine is the only safety on the roster who has seen an NFL field, which was forced from injuries in 2019. The argument could be made the Browns need to sign or draft a total of two safeties, as the team would likely prefer Redwine in the third safety spot vs. a starting role.
The linebacker room isn’t much better with Joe Schobert and Christian Kirksey both signing with other teams in the last two days. Mack Wilson and Sione Takitaki have played but are still young coming into their second season. It feels imperative the Browns bring in someone at linebacker with experience to help these young guys continue to progress.
At least on the defensive line, you have four starting-caliber guys but still lack depth. It appears as more time passes the Browns may be willing to pay the $15 million to Olivier Vernon. The market for pass rusher has thinned substantially in just 48 hours of negotiations. I still look for the Browns to try and add depth with a lower level name down the road.