The most important thing the Browns need to do in the 2024 NFL offseason
After losing to the Houston Texans in the Wild Card round, the Cleveland Browns demonstrated tenacity during the 2023 NFL season. With 11 wins and a playoff berth secured, they did so in spite of quarterback uncertainty. This analysis looks at the Browns’ season, identifies the team’s most pressing needs, and considers possible offseason tactics for strengthening the roster.
The Browns faced unforeseen challenges as they prepared for the 2023 season as one of the top teams. Key players like Nick Chubb, Deshaun Watson, Jack Conklin, Jedrick Wills, and Dawand Jones were among those who suffered injuries. Despite these difficulties, quarterback Joe Flacco and the Browns’ 11-6 record allowed them to qualify for the playoffs. Their tenacity carried them into the postseason, overcoming obstacles with a spirit of determination.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry have a lot of work ahead of them in the offseason after losing in the postseason. A number of players will become free agents, and budgetary restrictions are imminent. The Browns must thus carefully consider their roster choices in order to fill in important holes.
Numerous important players are about to become free agents. They include pass-rusher Za’Darius Smith, tight end Harrison Bryant, linebacker Sione Takitaki, and linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. Along with them are offensive tackle Geron Christian, punter Corey Bojorquez, safety Rodney McLeod, and running back Kareem Hunt. Yes, a few—Smith, Hunt, Takitaki, and Bojorquez, among others—justify keeping their positions. Nevertheless, budgetary constraints might force you to make tough decisions.
Joe Flacco, who was never intended to be a long-term member of Cleveland, is likely to leave. Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Deshaun Watson are anticipated to be the starting quarterback duo. The Browns, who are expected to pay more than the cap by $13.9 million, need to assess possible cap casualties. Nick Chubb, a star running back, stands out the most. He sustained a serious knee injury that is still bothering him. Although releasing Chubb would free up $11.9 million in cap space, decisions about injured players like wide receiver Elijah Moore and kicker Dustin Hopkins also need to be taken into account.
Here, we’ll examine the most pressing issue that needs to be resolved by the Cleveland Browns in the NFL offseason of 2024.
Main Requirement: Broad Receiver
The Browns’ cap situation is difficult. Nevertheless, possible reductions and reorganizations might free up about $42 million in capital. The Browns can address upcoming free agents and strengthen important areas of concern if they have room to maneuver. Getting a dynamic No. 2 wide receiver to go along with Watson’s arm strength is the most noteworthy.
Come on in, Marquise Brown. Yes, the Cardinals and Ravens’ attempts to make Brown their number one receiver were unsuccessful. Nevertheless, he is a desirable choice as a secondary threat due to his quickness and ability to create plays. Brown appears to be a strong contender for this position in Cleveland, drawing comparisons to Watson’s productive collaboration with Brandin Cooks during his time with the Texans.
The defensive tackle group for the Browns is undergoing a significant change. Important players like Jordan Elliott, Maurice Hurst, and Shelby Harris will be free agents. Yes, Dalvin Tomlinson, a nose tackle who stuffs runs, offers stability. Nevertheless, getting a 3-technique that can produce a pass rush is still important, and it might be done through the draft.
This is where Clemson’s DT Ruke Orhorhoro enters the picture. Despite coming to football later than expected after moving to Michigan from Nigeria, his developmental trajectory shows promise. He has unrealized pass-rushing potential and is a draft prospect. Orhorhoro is the kind of young player the Browns could develop into a successful team in the future.
Cleveland may also think about choosing DT Kris Jenkins in addition to him. The Browns have big holes to cover as the interior defensive linemen are set to depart. Although Jenkins isn’t a particularly good pass rusher right now, his strong 305-pound frame helped him record an impressive stop percentage. Last season, he was ranked eighth among Power 5 defensive tackles. His skill at run defense is a great asset that could strengthen Cleveland’s line of defense
