Cleveland Browns: Second-wave free agents who may be of interest
By Greg Newland
Cleveland Browns Second Wave Free Agent target No. 3 – Danny Shelton, Defensive Tackle
The Cleveland Browns drafted Danny Shelton at pick No. 12 in the 2015 draft, and while his first tenure ended poorly, he could be a great fit for the defensive line.
Shelton’s time in Cleveland ended when he just couldn’t stay on the field. He became so out of shape and gave such poor effort, the organization finally traded him for a third-rounder after just three seasons.
Shelton has not lived up to his top 15 draft status, but he has become a much more consistent player that can be very effective on running downs. He still doesn’t have the athleticism to be an effective pass rusher, but a big guy in the middle is what the Browns need.
Tommy Togiai and Jordan Elliott will be the two young guys who should get a bulk of the snaps, but neither has the frame to be a true three-technique tackle which is where Shelton thrives.
The front office, coaches, and 99 percent of the roster have changed since Shelton left after the 2017 season, so don’t be surprised if later in free agency the Browns make a run at the veteran tackle who may not have a ton of interest in the open market.