Grading the Cleveland Browns first wave of free agency

ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 29: Austin Hooper #81 of the Atlanta Falcons runs with the ball during a game against the Tennessee Titans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 29, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 29: Austin Hooper #81 of the Atlanta Falcons runs with the ball during a game against the Tennessee Titans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 29, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /
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MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – DECEMBER 29: Andrew Sendejo #34 of the Minnesota Vikings tackles Tarik Cohen #29 of the Chicago Bears during the first quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 29, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – DECEMBER 29: Andrew Sendejo #34 of the Minnesota Vikings tackles Tarik Cohen #29 of the Chicago Bears during the first quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 29, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

Jojo Natson, Wide Receiver/Returner: A-

The Browns haven’t had a legitimate return man since Travis Benjamin, so the addition of Jojo Natson will be welcomed by all Browns fans. The speedster signed a one-year $1 million deal with the Browns. Natson likely won’t see the field on offense but will play a tremendous role on special teams and returning kicks. After years of expecting the ball at the 20, let’s hope Natson can bring a spark.

Andrew Sendejo, Safety: B+

Andrew Berry was able to find a starting strong safety in Joseph and later found a free safety in veteran Andrew Sendejo. Like many other signings this season, Sendejo comes on a one-year $2.25 million deal giving the Browns a short-term solution. After struggling with injuries the last few seasons, Sendejo will have likely have one last chance to resurrect his career in Cleveland.

Sendejo is another singing that means the hunt for Anthony Harris is officially over. Cleveland did find a starting-caliber free safety which is a positive. The 11-year veteran should also bring much-needed experience and leadership to the locker room which can’t be overlooked.

Donovan Olumba, Cornerback: B+

The signing of Donovan Olumba is still very new, however after a limited experience with the Dallas Cowboys last season there is very little risk. Olumba signed as an undrafted free agent out of Portland State in 2018 and has a lot of raw talent. Highly unlikely Olumba is a factor in 2020 but could help with special teams that will be welcomed. No details of his deal were available.

The Browns won the offseason last year and it equated to six regular-season wins, so let’s not get too excited yet. However, Andrew Berry has earned much respect thus far. He has signed positions of need and done it responsibly with front-loaded deals as well as not over-paying.

Next. 3 Overlooked FAs still available. dark

Look for the Browns to find additional linebackers and pass rushers in the draft and/or free agency.