Cleveland Browns free agents stay or go: Rashard Higgins, Olivier Vernon, more

Tough calls on the defensive front for Cleveland Browns to make

Outside of Myles Garrett, there is not a solid name set in stone to return outside of rookie Jordan Elliot and the returning Andrew Billings after opting out of the 2020 season. Sheldon Richardson is likely to be a cap casualty, and Berry will have tough decisions to make on some of the bigger names.

Olivier Vernon

This is a tough call, and I do not envy Berry for having to make it.

Vernon was a key contributor for the Browns this season, the last year of his deal. In fact, he was playing so well, he was staring big money in the face with his free agency impending. That all changed Week 17 when he ruptured his Achilles; does he even see the field in 2021?

At the age of 31 now, there is no guaranteeing Vernon ever returns to form, and it seems unlikely the Browns will look to extend a player with no guarantees of taking a snap next season. However, the Browns could do him a good graces favor, give him a one-year deal, and stash him on Injured Reserve.

Stay

Larry Ogunjobi

Four years and no development from Ogunjobi. A player who was drafted for his athletic ceiling and potential, Ogunjobi has yet to put it together on the field. He gets pushed back off the line of scrimmage, struggles to hold the of attack, and shows no nuance as a pass rusher. It is time for the Browns to part ways as his contract expires.

Go

Vincent Taylor

A surprising contributor for the Browns, Taylor played a big role as a rotational piece along their defensive line. A bully at the point of attack and a strong run stuffer, Vincent has a place both in this league and on this team. Taylor deserves a nice little pay raise to stay with the Browns in 2021 and potentially beyond.

Stay