Olivier Vernon – Defensive End
The chatter all off-season has been the $15.5 million cap hit from Olivier Vernon would be an easy cut to free up space for younger free agents. To this point, Vernon remains with the team and new rumblings sound like the Browns intend to pay the $15.5 million.
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Vernon who will turn 30 this season was just starting to become productive in 2019 before an injury that sidelined him six games. Vernon hasn’t played a full season since 2016 and has seen his sack total diminish each year as well from 8.5 in 2016 to only 3.5 in 2019.
Given the Browns still have plenty of cap space for 2020 (just over $42 million) I am fine taking a risk on paying Vernon top dollar knowing there is a chance for injury. It surprises me he wasn’t a cap casualty, but this late in the game it appears Berry values pass rushers enough to keep Vernon around one more year. Keep in mind by keeping Vernon until the end of his contract the Browns could receive a decent compensatory draft pick in 2021.
Vernon still could get the ax, but with Everson Griffen and Jadeveon Clowney being the only strong pass-rushing free agents left, Vernon appears safe for now. Griffen is older and looking for $10+ million and Clowney reportedly wants $20 million per year with little track record to back up demands.
Unless Vernon has a breakout year in 2020, I don’t look for him to return. However, given the importance of pass rush and value Berry puts on it, look for Vernon to get one more shot in Cleveland. The Browns will likely draft multiple pass rushers in this year’s draft to try and find a replacement for Vernon going forward.