3 Contract extensions that need to be done by the Cleveland Browns

Larry Ogunjobi, Defensive Tackle

A talented defensive tackle that has had some ups and downs should be on the Browns radar for a contract extension. Larry Ogunjobi has spent his first three seasons after being drafted in the third round by the Browns and will be a free agent after the 2020 season.

Ogunjobi has been a tremendous pass rusher from the inside, but at times can be overly aggressive on run plays which can leave gaping holes. Keep in mind, Ogunjobi is only 26 years of age and has plenty of time to continue to develop. After totaling 5.5 sacks each of the last two years, Ogunjobi is a defender that offenses must worry about on passing downs from the interior.

The Browns must be careful to not overpay Ogunjobi, but at his age, there is no doubt he is still climbing to his peak. He likely has another season or two of improvement before hitting his prime. Over the Caps valuation of Ogunjobi is $6.8 million per year, which is relatively cheap for his production with the team.

Ogunjobi will likely fetch more than that once he hits the open market so the Browns will be smart to try and re-sign the defensive tackle shortly after an extension with Garrett. Once 2020 is over it will be open season for Ogunjobi and his pass-rushing skills will be welcomed by many teams which could drive up the price.

While there is an upside for Ogunjobi to wait until next offseason to create a bidding war in free agency, there is also some peace of mind to sign a contract early and not have to worry about an injury next season, which would thrash his value quickly.

If the Browns could lock up Ogunjobi for 3-4 years at a $6-8 million per year salary, the return on investment would be strong. Ogunjobi has been durable and is a hard worker, let’s hope the Browns make him one of the few who have gotten a second contract in the last 20 seasons.