4 former Browns free agents who could be brought back in the 2023 offseason
By Randy Gurzi
1. M.J. Stewart, DB
M.J. Stewart was a second-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft out of North Carolina but fell out of favor with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a hurry. In two seasons, he appeared in 21 games and had 68 tackles and five pass defenses before being waived.
The Cleveland Browns brought him in for the 2020 season and he spent the next two seasons of his career in Northeast Ohio. Stewart was never a regular starter, getting just three in 29 games, but he was always able to step up when needed.
He finished his time in Cleveland with 69 tackles, two interceptions, and seven pass defenses. Stewart was also fantastic in their playoff run, recording 14 tackles and a pick in two games. Even more impressive, he was ranked No. 5 overall at safety during the 2021 season as he moved to the position when needed.
This past year, he joined the Houston Texans and spent the majority of the campaign playing free safety. He also moved closer to the line and played the slot at times as well, finishing with 41 tackles and two fumble recoveries.
Stewart is a capable defender that could add some much-needed depth to Cleveland’s secondary. His addition would give them a potential third safety along with John Johnson and Grant Delpit while also offering a slot corner as well, if needed.
