3 backup plans for Cleveland Browns now that J.J. Watt is off the market

2. Haason Reddick

Haason Reddick is likely the new flavor of the week now that Watt has signed with the Arizona Cardinals. Where there was previously a belief the Cardinals would re-sign Reddick after a monster year in 2020, there’s now some doubt that will happen with the addition of Watt.

Reddick is interesting, he came into the league as a defensive end, but at 6-foot-1, 235 pounds, the team quickly moved him to a stand-up linebacker. Reddick was one of the worst linebackers in the league and was quickly starting to see his dreams of playing in the NFL dwindle.

Then last season the Cardinals put him back down on the line of scrimmage and let him rush the passer. Not only did Reddick find a home, but he also ended the season with 12.5 sacks and 15 total tackles for loss.

If Reddick can focus the full offseason on moving to defensive end and add 15-20 pounds to his frame, he could end up being a pro-bowl caliber player. At the same time, it can’t be overlooked that he only has three-fourths of a season of solid production.

Andrew Berry must be careful with Reddick, he likely fits slightly better in a 3-4 defense as the rushing outside linebacker, but he also proved he can play in the 4-3 scheme. The Browns will have to be careful to not get a one-trick pony who can only rush but struggles against the run.

Why Berry will be so interested, with only one year of production Reddick could be willing to sign a team-friendly deal. Multiple years with not a ton of money guaranteed. Meaning if Reddick performs, he will get his money, but if not, the Browns can move on from him and it not cost them much.

The market may be warmer than expected for Reddick because of the focus on pass rushers, but I think a deal may be very tempting for Berry who is always looking for the best bang for his buck.