4 ‘cheap’ free agent defensive linemen Cleveland Browns could consider
By Josh Brown
2. Shelby Harris
Shelby Harris has been one of the best defensive tackles in the NFL over the last four years that most people have never heard of. Harris has always graded in the top half for players at his position, despite not being a household name.
The former seventh-round pick out of Illinois State was one of the best run defenders in the NFL this past season and has been one of the better inside pass rushers since joining the Broncos. In 2018 Harris had 11 quarterback knockdowns, four tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks. He also threw in seven passes defended last year, and it was not a fluke as he had nine the year before. He makes plays and is sound in every facet of the game. Harris should have his share of suitors even at 29 years old.
For the Browns, he would form a formidable duo with Sheldon Richardson. Both are strong run defenders and would be hard to stop when they pin their ears back and get after the passer. The pressure they would put on the interior of opposing offensive lines would also free up Myles Garrett to do Myles Garrett type things.
Add in Andrew Billings as a rotational piece, and the Browns would have one of the deepest defensive tackle groups in the NFL. If you watched any of the Superbowl, you know what a deep line can do for a defense.
Contract prediction: Three years, $34.5 million, $17-19 million guaranteed