Cleveland Browns: 5 free agency predictions as legal tampering begins
Five predictions for the Cleveland Browns as the organization heads into free agency’s “legal tampering” portion of the 2020 offseason.
With legal tampering set to begin as the NFL moves ahead with free agency amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the Cleveland Browns can offer their fans a welcomed distraction by plugging some holes on the roster.
1. Browns pay big for Jack Conklin: The Browns get a tackle…just not a left tackle, and that’s OK. The Browns needed to two tackles and Conklin shores up the right side.
Armed with $65 million in cap space, it’s been rumored that Cleveland will invest heavily in the offensive line. With Paul DePodesta still employed, look no further than the massive contract doled out to Kevin Zeitler back in 2017.
Even though “analytics” dictates strategy, that past signing shows Cleveland will empty its coffers to improve the offensive trenches.
2. Schobert’s replacement found: Nick Kwiatkoski might not have been a name you’ve heard until a few days ago, but now there’s speculation the Chicago Bears free agent would be a fit to replace Joe Schobert.
The four-year veteran fits into DePodesta’s moneyball mantra in that he’s a comparable player who is set to earn a lot less money than Schobert.
Kwiatkoski’s started just 22 games in four NFL seasons. Cleveland could be the opportunity he needs to put his mark on the league.
3. Speaking of Schobert: It wouldn’t be surprising to see Schobert sign with Denver, although Green Bay could also be a landing spot.
4. Kirko to a Rival: Christian Kirksey signs with….The Ravens…of course this is going to happen. Baltimore’s reportedly interested, and you know two dates in which Kirko will turn career games during the 2020 season.
5. Lose a safety, gain a safety: Damarious Randall will almost certainly sign elsewhere, but look for the Browns to make a play for 49ers safety Jimmie Ward, who’s coming off a career season.
The former 2014 first-round pick has dealt with injuries, but busted out playing for defensive backs coach Joe Woods a season ago.
Next. 3 players the Browns could draft if they trade down. dark
Now, with Woods employed as the Browns defensive coordinator, this fit seems like a match made in the Dawg Pound.