Cleveland Browns free agents stay or go: Rashard Higgins, Olivier Vernon, more
By Cory Kinnan
Linebacker room a toss-up
The linebacking corps of the Browns is in need of a significant upgrade. Next year, rookie Jacob Phillips will likely take on a bigger role after beginning to put it together at the end of the year. Sione Takitaki also proved he belonged. Davis, as mentioned, may be brought back for cheap as well. However, Mack Wilson is no lock to make the team, and two starters are pending free agents.
B.J. Goodson
After signing a one-year deal, Goodson really struggled in Cleveland, despite what the box score states. However, a team may be willing to pay Goodson based on his numbers alone. This front office will not, so unless Goodson signs a deal that is of value to the team, he will likely be playing football elsewhere in 2021.
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Malcolm Smith
Smith was the surprisingly solid contributor after signing with the Browns late in the summer. In fact, he actually looked like the best linebacker on the roster for part of the season. However, he was signed as a veteran who could get plugged in and be serviceable. He filled that role, and may not have a role moving forward. Linebacker is not a position the Browns are willing to give much money to.
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