3 mid-tier free agents that make sense for the Cleveland Browns in 2023
By Greg Newland
Browns Free Agent Target No. 2: Marcus Davenport, DE
After a breakout year in 2021, Marcus Davenport had a disappointing 2022 season with only half a sack for the New Orleans Saints. I’m hoping that Andrew Berry will get a more established guy for this position, but Davenport would be a fantastic rotational guy especially if Chase Winovich doesn’t return.
Berry falls in love with guys like Davenport who were former first-round picks and are coming off disappointing seasons. The price will likely be right and there is a chance to have a breakout year.
Another SACK!
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) October 2, 2022
This time it's Davenport and Jordan 🙌#Saints | 📺: NFL Network / WWLTV (locally) pic.twitter.com/RguOu9KKG6
The downside to a guy like Davenport would be if he had another lackluster season like 2022 and the change of scenery didn’t help as all had hoped. With Jadeveon Clowney and even Takk McKinley on the roster over the last two years, fans have seen how much more productive Garrett is with a strong partner on the opposite side.
If Berry decides to stay with Winovich, I don’t think a rotational type of guy will be in the mix as a free agent singing. Winovich had some production towards the end of the season, but I’m not sold it was enough to get him another contract.
Alex Wright will also be in year two who did show a lot of promise as a rookie. Wright is more of a run defender at the moment compared to a pass rusher but should also develop this offseason.