3 rumors Cleveland Browns fans shouldn’t buy into for 2020
By Greg Newland
The Browns need more depth at linebacker
Perhaps one of the biggest question marks on the Browns roster right now is the linebacking core. Mack Wilson showed promise as a rookie but was often receiving direction from departed middle linebacker and captain, Joe Schobert.
The Browns signed B.J. Goodson and drafted Brandon Phillips in the third round from LSU to pair with 2019 draftees Wilson and Sione Takitaki. However, many are still predicting the Browns will try and add another linebacker before next season. There is a guy in Nigel Bradham who is available and familiar with Andrew Berry, but a troubled past may be too much for the Browns to risk.
In a recent interview, defensive coordinator Joe Woods shared that no one player will have a set position heading into 2020. The four top guys will work in each position and will develop into the position that fits best. Woods also shared that he wants to eventually transition into a dime system that would feature an additional safety and only two linebackers.
This comes with little surprise as the Browns invested heavily in the safety position, signing Karl Joseph and Andrew Sendejo this offseason, while also drafting a top prospect in Grant Delpit from LSU with their second round pick. Woods acknowledged the change would take time, but they would begin the transition process.
With the focus moving to a 4-2-5, the Browns will be fine with only four linebackers. It is obvious the coaching staff has faith in Takitaki and Phillips to be able to play in 2020 or a move would have already been made.
Keep in mind, analytical regimes put a limited value on the linebacker position, hence why they were unwilling to give Schobert $10 million per year to stay. The Browns could add a veteran piece who gets cut last second, but don’t look for any flashy moves from the Browns at linebacker.