Cleveland Browns: 5 post-draft free agents who can still fill holes
By Chad Porto
CB Prince Amukamara
He’s a cornerback but you’re not bringing him to play corner. Amukamara would be brought in primarily to play safety. Cue the angry commentator saying “HE’S A CORNERBACK, DUMMBY”. Firstly, if you can play corner then you can play safety. It’s like saying someone who’s a tackle could play guard and vise versa. They’re the same skill sets just different responsibilities. Secondly, learn how to spell “dummy”. Sheesh.
So yes, Amukamara could play safety. Assuming he can tackle consistently. That’s a question for sure, but it’s not like the safties the team has don’t have the same concerns. They’re practically all unproven or castoffs. Why not add a veteran who knows how to cover?
Amukamara is still a viable starter at 31 and even if you’re dead set on Karl Joseph and Grant Delpit, that doesn’t mean he can’t be a great backup; for the right price. Sure, there’s still the possibility he could also provide depth at corner as a nickle guy, or even as a starter if Greedy Williams doesn’t improve. Though safety is the area of need, honestly. Joseph is oft-injured and a bit of a bust. Oakland didn’t even pick up his fifth option he was so inconsistent. There’s no guarantee he’s going to start, let alone start all 16 games. Something he’s never done.
The other names at the safety spots are J.T. Hassell, Sheldrick Redwine, and Montrel Meander. They’re all cut-bait for the upcoming season and it’s entirely likely only one is retained on the 53 man roster. The other name, who’s all but guaranteed a spot is Andrew Sendejo. Sendejo played a lot with the Vikings and head coach Kevin Stefanski is clearly a fan of the guy since he brought him over, yet injuries have slowed him down. A healthy 2020 could see Sendejo regain his starting position.
Yet, that’s all if’s. The team needs a reliable veteran and Amukamara is the closest thing to a guarantee left on the market.