Browns still have a clear need they have to address following first couple of days in free agency and options remain
Following the first couple of waves of signings in NFL free agency, the Cleveland Browns still have a clear need. The team watched DT Jordan Elliott walk away and did not sign what was their top target, DT Christian Wilkins. Cleveland brought back Maurice Hurst and Shelby Harris at the position but still are missing […]
Following the first couple of waves of signings in NFL free agency, the Cleveland Browns still have a clear need.
The team watched DT Jordan Elliott walk away and did not sign what was their top target, DT Christian Wilkins. Cleveland brought back Maurice Hurst and Shelby Harris at the position but still are missing either a third player to rotate with them or a bonafide starter.
Elliott started 14 of 17 games last season and played in about 40 percent of the defensive snaps. Other defensive tackles like DaQuan Jones, Raekwon Davis, Javon Kinlaw, and Grover Stewart have already made their way off of the market.
Who remains out there for the Cleveland Browns to sign?
As mentioned, it is going to depend on whether the Browns want to split snaps last season between Hurst, Harris, and a signing. The biggest names out there right now are Arik Armstead and D.J. Reader, both players will carry heavy price tags. Of the two, Reader would likely be the more inclined fit and a bit cheaper. The Cincinnati Bengals want to keep him while the Detroit Lions are interested as well.
Cleveland was interested in Teair Tart last season when he was waived by the Tennessee Titans but he ended up going to the Houston Texans. He remains a free agent, as does Sheldon Rankins, another veteran who has gotten it done for some time.
Other defensive tackles I’d keep an eye on
- Tim Settle
- Hassan Ridgeway
- Sebastian Joseph
Final point
The Browns should be looking for a veteran to give them quality snaps and potentially be the starter with the depth already being known. Cleveland can continue to draft and develop defensive linemen and the hope should be that Siaki Ika takes a step forward in 2024 as a run-stopper.
There are some quality defensive tackles still out there and the Browns should act quickly before they’re left with slim pickings.
Grading out the Cleveland Browns’ initial moves that have been made to start NFL free agency
Taking a look at what the Browns have done.
