Cleveland Browns: 10 options at EDGE in free agency
By Sam Penix
7. Melvin Ingram
Melvin Ingram was one of the NFL’s premier pass-rushers from 2014 to 2017, and while he may not be as good as he used to be, he’s still quite effective when he’s on the field.
He’s missed 12 games over the past two seasons, including nine in 2020 due to knee injuries that landed him on injured reserve twice. That may end up reducing his price, and he’d be a great short-term option on a one or two-year deal. The question is whether he is the type of body the Browns want at EDGE2 as he’s just 6-2, 247-pounds, which is certainly on the smaller side.
6. Ryan Kerrigan
Ryan Kerrigan’s role has been reduced over the past few seasons as the Washington Football Team has moved toward younger players. He’s still a quality defender, and like Murphy, will likely be underpaid on his next contract, which is something the Browns could take advantage of.
5. Romeo Okwara
One of the most interesting players on the market, Romeo Okwara had four years of underwhelming effectiveness before breaking out in 2020 with 10 sacks and one of the better PFF pass-rush grades in the league. The question is whether that was a fluke, or if he’s finally begun to reach the potential within his 6-4 274-pound frame.
Perhaps he’d be willing to take a relatively cheap two-year deal with Cleveland to play opposite of Garrett, prove he’s a starting-caliber player, and cash in once the cap rockets back up post-pandemic.