No. 8 – Sheldon Richardson
In his eighth NFL season, defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson signed as a free agent with the Browns. While many were so excited about signing defensive end Olivier Vernon, Richardson was possibly the best addition to the defense last year.
More from Dawg Pound Daily
- How the Browns could maximize Nick Chubb in 2023
- Can Deshaun Watson get to Patrick Mahomes level for Cleveland Browns?
- 3 Cleveland Browns who should see an expanded role in 2023 and 1 who should not
- Is Marcus Davenport on the Browns radar in 2023?
- 5 Free agents from Super Bowl LVII Cleveland Browns should target
Not only did Richardson have 62 tackles and three sacks as a run-stuffing defensive tackle but he also showed the flexibility to move to defensive end after the suspension of Myles Garrett. Yes, defensive ends get all the love because of the sacks, but wherever the ball was last season, Richardson was right there.
Richardson earned a Pro-Bowl invite in 2014 with the New York Jets racking up 8 sacks that season. If the Browns can accumulate nine-plus wins this season, look for Richardson to be a dark horse to earn another invite.
No. 7 – Jack Conklin
Some may have Jack Conklin too high at number seven, but after two years of fighting an injured knee, look for Conklin to return to his rookie form when he was selected as a first-team all-pro. Not only will Conklin be healthy, but he is also in a system that fits his style perfectly. Conklin is athletic and can move side to side in the wide zone-blocking scheme.
In a division the features T.J. Watt at the left outside linebacker position, Conklin will get his welcome to the team early and often. Watt has single-handedly made a career against the Browns, making previously tackles look silly and harassing Mayfield.
Conklin has all the talent in the world and will be under the guidance of Bill Callahan one of the most respected offensive line coaches in the league. After ultimately being replaced in Tennessee with his backup, Conklin will be out to prove he is an all-pro player once again.