Browns Must Sign Recently Released 4-Time All-Pro Defender
The Cleveland Browns are experiencing one of their best campaigns in ages, sitting at a 7-3 record ahead of a Week 12 showdown with the Denver Broncos. A dominant defense has been the main reason why the Browns are among the AFC's best teams, but what if they had the opportunity to add another elite defender to the mix?
Well, it turns out they have the chance to do so following the latest news out of Indianapolis.
Browns Roster Rumors
On Tuesday, Shaq Leonard took to social media to say goodbye to Colts fans, announcing that he is leaving the team. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport later confirmed the four-time All-Pro's release.
A former All-Pro and Pro Bowler, #Colts LB Shaq Leonard was one of the game's best. But his playing time dipped this year, which he's spoken publicly about. Now, he's been waived.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 21, 2023
The release isn't all that surprising given that the linebacker publicly made it clear that he wasn't happy with his snap count this season.
Nevertheless, with Leonard now the top free agent out there, it's a no-brainer for Cleveland general manager Andrew Berry to call the ex-Gamecock's agent.
Leonard hasn't been his usual dominant self this season, but that has a lot to do with a lack of playing time. He's only played 70% of snaps in his sixth NFL season compared to 93% or more in the first four. In fact, the Nichols, SC native has played 72% or fewer snaps in six of his last eight games.
Playing time wouldn't be an issue with the Browns, who could use another LB now that Anthony Walker is expected to be "week-to-week" with a hamstring injury. The 28-year-old defender has started in all 10 of Cleveland's games thus far.
LB Anthony Walker week-to-week with a hamstring injury #Browns
— Jake Trotter (@Jake_Trotter) November 20, 2023
Moving to a contender like Cleveland could also motivate Leonard to return to form. He's one of the best linebackers in the league when he's on his game, proven by his four All-Pro selections and three Pro Bowl appearances. That's without mentioning his 614 career tackles, 15 sacks, 17 forced fumbles and 12 interceptions.
It's easy to salivate at the idea of Leonard joining a defense that already boasts the likes of Myles Garrett, Maurice Hurst and Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. A deal would also likely improve the Browns' Super Bowl LVIII odds, which rank 11th-best ahead of Week 12.
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