Cleveland Browns: Final list of XFL prospects to look at, awards and more
By Chad Porto
Players Browns should sign
These are the seven players the Browns should consider signing to deals, with the hopes of them becoming starters on offense, defense, potential special teams standouts or even reliable backups.
Seattle Dragons – LB Steven Johnson
The XFL leader in combined tackles, Steven Johnson was a relentless force on defense throughout the first half of the season. Had the team been given a chance to play out the rest of the year, there’s a good chance the team would’ve stayed in the Western Division’s battle for the 2nd playoff spot.
St. Louis BattleHawks – CB/Saf Dexter McCoil
The leader on the BattleHawks defense, the versatile and reliable Dexter McCoil makes for the best XFL-secondary prospect available. With his size and strength, he makes for a real force in the running game and his height and length make him a matchup nightmare for most receivers. The former CFL all-star and All-Pro would easily make a name as a starter for the Browns defense.
New York Guardians – LB Ben Heeney
Ben Heeney became the most reliable player on defense, even after former AAF player Bunmi Rotimi started off strong. Heeney is a reliable middle linebacker, who can get to his spots quickly as a run stopper. He may struggle as a pass defender at times, though that could be fixed with a better understanding of the defense.
Houston Roughnecks – ATH Nick Holley
Nick Holley has played quarterback, wide receiver and running back during his time playing football. He was at times streaky in the XFL but showed flashes of brilliance when called upon consistently. His ability to play slot receiver, third-down running back, returner or even on the defensive end of the special teams unit makes him unique and valuable. The Browns should also consider signing his twin brother Nate, who plays in the CFL as a linebacker but could be transitioned to the safety position.
Los Angeles Wildcast – WR Nelson Spruce
When Josh Johnson took over as the starter for the Wildcats, the entire offensive receiving corp looked infinitely better, yet Spruce missed most of that time with Johnson due to an injury. Yet, he played so well in the games he was active for that despite missing the last few weeks he still ranked in the top seven players for receiving yards. He’s big and quick and makes for an excellent target in the red zone and third-time conversions, while also proving to be a viable deep-field threat.
New York Guardians – DT Cavon Walker
The XFL leader in sacks was the Guardians’ interior linemen Cavon Walker. He was a force to deal with and proved to be able to collapse the center of the line. While most offensive lines played well enough in the XFL, the ones who went up against Walker struggled. He could be an intriguing option on the line.
Tampa Bay Vipers – QB Taylor Cornelius
Taylor Cornelius isn’t the best thrower in this crop of quarterback talent, yet he might be the best overall playmaker. He’s exceptionally fast and can roll out and hit his targets on the run but his value isn’t just as a backup quarterback. Similar to that of Kordell Stewart, Cornelius could come in and play a multitude of positions as needed, making him an asset for the team even when Baker Mayfield is healthy.