3 outside free agents who could sign with the Cleveland Browns
By Greg Newland
Cleveland Browns Outside Free Agent No. 3 – Akiem Hicks, Defensive Tackle
One thing is for sure, Akiem Hicks is not near the player that he was three seasons ago. The Chicago Bears big man will turn 33 during the 2022 NFL season, but that’s no reason to believe he can’t be effective for at least another season or two.
Hicks would have been a luxury the Cleveland Browns could not have afforded a season or two ago, but now with his age, injuries the last few years, and giving him an opportunity to win, he may be within reach.
Hicks is a powerful defensive tackle that is great vs. both the run and pass. What some may call the “full package”. The only downside to Hicks is he isn’t going to be able to play 80 or 90 percent of the defensive snaps anymore.
However, if you can get a contract finalized for under $8 million a year, Hicks could solve a ton of problems. Not only would he be an effective player, but
he can also help to develop guys like Jordan Elliot and Tommy Togiai who have shown some promise.
Hicks has been with the Bears for six seasons and made $12 million last year while only playing in nine games. They may be motivated to keep him and pay over market value, but a chance to win now in Cleveland could be very enticing.
Defensive tackle is often a forgotten about position in the NFL today. But man, was it noticeable this season that the Browns need an upgrade at the position.