3 Cleveland Browns that must be cut in the offseason

The Cleveland Browns are projected to be just $4.8 million under the cap in 2023, which means they should be looking to shed some expenses in the offseason

In 2023, the Cleveland Browns are going to have to start worrying more about the salary cap than they have in the past. Of course, that’s what happens when you have a franchise quarterback, which they do in Deshaun Watson.

The former Houston Texans starter signed a five-year deal worth $230 million in fully guaranteed money and will count for $54.99 million next year. Throw in $29 million for Myles Garrett and $23 million for Amari Cooper and they’re paying their superstars a lot of money.

For that reason, they’re going to have to make some moves in order to fill out their roster — their estimated $4.8 million and whatever rollover they have won’t be enough, especially with some players (like Donovan Peoples-Jones) nearing the end of their rookie deals. Here we look at three players they need to move on from in order to free up space.

All salary numbers courtesy of OverTheCap.com.

3 Cleveland Browns that must be cut in the offseason

Joe Haeg, Offensive Tackle

2023 Salary: $2.5 million

Pre-June 1 Savings: $2 million
Dead Money: $500,000

Before Jack Conklin returned, Cleveland added veteran Joe Haeg as insurance. Ironically, they’ve had no setbacks for Conklin but Haeg has spent the entire season on the IR. They might have to move on from Conklin in the offseason since he’s going to be a free agent but James Hudson is ready to start in his place.

They’ll need a new swing tackle with Hudson leaving that role, but they can find a more affordable option in the draft. Spending $2.5 million on a 30-year-old that was hurt all season isn’t ideal.