3 cap casualty veterans the Cleveland Browns should consider

1. Kyle Van Noy – Linebacker

With the belief that B.J. Goodson will be on the move, not only is there a big void of talent at linebacker, there is also a void in a veteran leader. Kyle Van Noy signed a massive 4-year, $51 million contract just one year ago, before a report was leaked that he being cut by the Miami Dolphins who appeared to be the biggest overachievers in the league last season. That report was refuted but now, they are shopping him but with the leak of his release, teams will surely just wait until he’s available without that contract.

Van Noy has done it all in his career playing middle linebacker, outside linebacker, and even putting his hand down and playing defensive end when needed. He has the athleticism to run side to side and can be a bulldog up the middle in the run game. Not only that, Von Noy can be the leader this defense needs and help develop some of the young talents in the Brown locker room.

The biggest issue with signing Van Noy, it will likely take some money and I’m not convinced the Browns are willing to pony up at the linebacker position. Van Noy signed a $12.75 million per year deal just one year ago, it is likely it will take something over $10 million per year to get him.

Production was fantastic in 2020 as he had 69 tackles and 6 sacks, but certainly, enough that teams with a need will be interested. The Browns should be interested because of the versatility.  Van Noy would likely be a great fit in the middle of the defense where he previously played with the New England Patriots and had his best season in 2018, but you could also use him as an effective pass rusher in passing downs.

This list will continue to grow as we get closer to the March 17th start of the new season, so continue to follow as this list changes and grows.