Cleveland Browns set to host a visit with former Colts linebacker

The Cleveland Browns are now looking at a new linebacker

While Andrew Berry and the Cleveland Browns haven’t been wheeling and dealing as much as some expected, there has been some tremendous offseason moves made.

John Johnson (safety) takes the secondary to the next level, while guys like Takk McKinley (defensive end) and Malcolm Smith (linebacker) bring much-needed depth to the defense.

Berry is at it again early Thursday morning as the team is set to host former Indianapolis Colts linebacker, Anthony Walker on Thursday.

While some wanted a splash signing at the position, Berry has held true to form and is looking to add a “value” piece.

Walker has been a highly productive player in the NFL and has started 16 games each of the last two years. After eclipsing 100 tackles in 2018 and 2019, Walker ended the 2020 season with 92 total tackles, two for loss, one interception, and one fumble recovery.

The 2017 fifth-round pick from Northwestern would be a very similar signing to B.J. Goodson last season. Walker has a lot of experience of being on an NFL field and is known as a great run defender, but can be lacking in pass coverage.

While the NFL is an ever-changing league, the need for strong pass coverage skills as a linebacker is becoming more and more necessary. While Walker may be a very nice fit on running downs, there is a good chance you will not want him on the field during passing downs.

Walker did run a 4.65, forty-yard dash in the 2017 combine, so maybe with a little coaching and a change of scenery, Walker will be able to improve coverage skills. Goodson is a prime example that even with years of experience in the league, you can still improve.

If the Browns sign Walker it is a clear sign they intend to draft another linebacker in the earlier rounds of the 2021 draft, but only time will tell.