Cleveland Browns: 5 most important additions this offseason
By Greg Newland
Andrew Berry has hit this offseason out of the park, check out the five most important transactions he made for the Cleveland Browns in 2021.
Even though the Cleveland Browns won 11 regular-season games, and a first-round playoff game in 2020, there were still a ton of holes coming into this offseason. While the offense has a few guys coming off injuries, the defense just needed some major talent upgrades.
Have no fear Cleveland fans, Andrew Berry answered the call. Not only did he sign a tremendous free agency draft, but he also did so while being salary cap conscious, and then filled the remaining holes in the NFL draft.
How do you know the Browns roster is in a great spot? There will likely be 2-3 rookies that see much any playing time in 2021 other than special teams. That means they will all get a year to develop and learn and give them that much more of a chance for long-term success.
Keep reading for the five most important additions to the roster in 2021. Keep in mind, this isn’t a most talented list.
5. Greg Newsome – Cornerback
While no one was shocked the Browns wanted a corner in the first round, many were surprised to see Greg Newsome from Northwestern still around at pick No. 26. Anyone who watched the Big 10 Championship in 2020, will remember him well.
Although Newsome has struggled with injuries throughout his career, he’s the perfect fit for the Browns. He has tremendous strength and is a physical corner is great in run support.
While Newsome may compete for playing time, keep in mind this is just an insurance policy for Greedy Williams who has been effective when healthy, but he hasn’t been healthy often.
Given the importance of a solid corner in the league, Newsome was a homerun pick and help solidifies the Brown’s secondary. Williams and Denzel Ward are likely to start every game in 2021 and having a guy like Newsome on standby will be huge.