Cleveland Browns: 10 free agents Browns should target in 2019

4. Steven Nelson, CB

The Cleveland Browns are likely to fix the defense with the 17th pick in the draft. However, the organization can’t fix the whole thing in the spring.

That’s why Kansas City corner Steven Nelson makes sense in free agency.

No, the Chiefs weren’t known for their defense en route to a playoff berth in 2018, but Nelson is a solid player, who at 26, still has potential to reach.

Consider that, along with the fact that he was a third-round pick of John Dorsey back in 2015, and there may be marriage between Nelson and the Browns in the future.

Nelson graded out as PFF’s 33rd rated corner last season, with a 72.1 grade (considered above average).

Even though he’s not elite, he’d be an upgrade for the Browns.

Denzel Ward was PFF’s 15th rated corner, but you’d have to go all the way to the 50s to find the next Browns corner. Phillip Gaines graded out 54th, while T.J. Carrie slotted in at 58.

Nelson had 15 passes defensed in 2018,, which was tied for seventh last season. For context, Kyle Fuller led the NFL with 21 passes defensed.

Nelson also had four interceptions.

The former Dorsey draft pick would ultimately be an upgrade at the position and since he’s not considered a shut-down corner, he shouldn’t break the bank.