Cleveland Browns add Takk McKinley to give Myles Garrett some help
By Nick Pedone
The Cleveland Browns were able to sign free-agent defensive end Takk McKinley to a team-friendly deal to add some pressure help opposite Myles Garrett.
The Cleveland Browns remained active in Day Two of the NFL’s legal tampering period, signing defensive end Takk McKinley to a one-year contract worth up to $4 million.
McKinley, 25, was drafted in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons.
He has totaled 17.5 sacks on his young career but will provide a serviceable option to pair with Myles Garrett, something the Browns wanted to have handled during free agency.
Browns are signing Takk McKinley, per source. One year deal that could reach more than $4M.
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) March 16, 2021
McKinley was waived by Atlanta last season and was failed to be picked up on waivers by the Cincinnati Bengals and San Francisco 49ers due to failed physicals. He ultimately stuck with the Las Vegas Raiders, but never ended up suiting up for the team.
Despite his madness on waivers, the Browns continually attempted and failed to be awarded, McKinley. Now, they snag him up in free agency for a one-year “prove-it” deal.
The Browns released veteran DE Adrian Clayborn and are unlikely to bring back Olivier Vernon in free agency. After yesterday’s edge rusher market exploded, with Carl Lawson, Bud Dupree and Trey Hendrickson getting massive paydays, the Browns sat back and snagged a player they have been interested in for quite some time.
Yesterday, the Browns were able to sign former Los Angeles Rams safety John John III to a three-year deal. General manager Andrew Berry is making a statement that his crew is focusing on revamping that side of the ball, even if it’s within their price margins.
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Even if McKinley does not ultimately earn the starting job opposite Garrett, he will provide good, young and cheap depth to a position group in need.