For the Cleveland Browns this past off-season was a critical one. With the entire AFC division getting better it was important that Cleveland continued to get better along with the other teams.The signing of key free agents, and giving contract extensions to the core players. This teams off-season was ready to take shape.
Key Needs Met?
One of the biggest needs this season was the defensive line, defensive tackle and defensive end. Adding pieces like Taven Bryan, Chase Winovich in free agency and drafting Perrion Winfrey. Really went a long way in adding depth and talent. Those moves helped strengthen the interior run defense. Re-signing Jadeveon Clowney and Anthony Walker was important too.
WR Room
Trading for Amari Cooper probably could have been the biggest impact move of the off-season. The capital that it took to get Amari Cooper was even better. Just a 5th round pick. He is a well rounded player that can help elevate the offense and his fellow wide receivers. Along with those moves there are capable receivers already on the roster. Bringing in specialist Jakeem Grant will add a new dimension to the team.
Quarterback
The most pivotal move this off-season was trading for Deshaun Watson and giving him a brand new contract. The browns have a talented roster that can compete for championships and super bowl’s right now. The missing piece was top tier quarterback play. Adding Jacoby Brissett and Joshua Dobbs has gone a long way into reshaping the room. Looking for continuity for the entire offense the Browns front office wanted 3 quarterbacks with similar play styles.
Other Key Additions and Losses
Bringing back key players already on the roster was very important. Re-signing Denzel Ward and David Njoku will go along way in keeping home grown talent. Some of the biggest losses was Jarvis Laundry, J.C. Tretter and Austin Hooper. The three players were all let go for cap space. With news of Baker Mayfield being traded any day. That trade will open up more cap flexibility. To be in good financial standing going forward.
Record Prediction
The Cleveland Browns record prediction is solely based on the potential suspension of Deshaun Watson. If Watson is suspended for 4 games that would be beneficial. With a four game suspension the record can be anything from 10-7 to 11-6 and 12-5. A 6-8 game suspension 9-8 10-7 11-6 at very best. With a full season suspension the best the Cleveland Browns could be is 9-8 in my mind.
Biggest Matchups
Baltimore Ravens vs Cleveland Browns in week 7. With the possibility of Lamar vs Deshaun. With two young African American QBs playing each in a rivalry game will be exceptional. Could this be the first time the AFC North features to two black starting quarterbacks playing against each other? Next biggest Matchup would be week 8 Monday Night Football vs the Bengals. Joe Burrow vs Deshaun Watson. A young elite quarterback battle.
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