Ranking the top 5 free agent defensive tackles Browns can target

No. 4: Sheldon Rankins, New York Jets

Sheldon Rankins would be another seven-year veteran who wouldn't command a lot of money when free agency begins, which could be the route that Andrew Berry might want to explore.

The former 12th overall pick of the 2016 NFL Draft has been a serviceable pro in his career and would be a guy who can come in and help sure up the defensive line of the Browns. He was drafted by New Orleans, where he spent the first five years of his professional career. He spent the last two seasons with the Jets.

In 2022, Rankins had 43 tackles (25 solo, four for a loss), 11 pressures, seven quarterback hits, and three sacks. The pressures would open up more space for Myles Garrett to thrive alongside, so this would be another smart move by Berry and the Browns.

Last year, Cleveland struggled when it came to leadership on the defensive side of the ball. There was too much finger-pointing and not enough unity. A player like Rankins, much like Ioannidis, could be a guy who can come in and help both on the field and off.

Plus, if Berry elects to sign guys like Rankins and other cheaper options, it would open up more room to get better at another position, maybe even a speedy wide receiver.