The Browns have been busy since I wrote my last blog. They hired veteran coach Bill Musgrave as an offensive assistant. Personally, I would have preferred someone who is more familiar with quarterback Deshaun Watson, but I’ll take a fresh set of eyes looking at the offense. Especially someone who head coach Kevin Stefanski knows and respects. Musgrave spent 19 seasons in the NFL as either a quarterback coach or an offensive coordinator. The team also made some minor moves on the coaching staff.
The Browns started the process of restructuring contracts with WR/KR Jakeem Grant. They took the remaining two years on his contract and turned into a one-year contract with a voidable year. They saved $1.7 million and made his cap number the same amount. It was also announced the team will cut safety John Johnson, III and designate him a post June 1 cut. This wasn’t a surprising move as I’ve said it might happen and saves the team $9.75 million in cap space. I thought at the time this was a great free agent signing, however I don’t think they Browns utilized Johnson’s talent properly.
As expected, Washington franchised tagged DT Daron Payne. No surprise and still don’t believe he was ever a free agent target for the Browns. There’s a lot of talk about the Browns and Bengals safety Jessie Bates. Just don’t see the Browns spending $15 million on Bates when they could use that money on two or three much needed players. Just a reminder the Franchise & Transition designation period ends March 7. Expect the Browns to announce a Watson restructure after the Ravens tag Lamar Jackson.
The combine has started and the only player I’ve heard who has talked to the Browns is Michigan DE Mike Morris. Other possible targets for the Browns: Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern, Zach Harrison, Ohio State and Tuli Tuipulotu, USC. All would be potential third round picks. Yesterday, Browns GM talked to the media. My takeaways are: Would not name Nick Harris as the starting center, a Watson restructure is on the table (Yes), there are other options for restructures (no surprise), kicker Cade York will have no competition and the age guardrails for draft picks is still in use. For those who don’t know, Berry doesn’t draft players over the age of 22.
Finally, it was announced the Browns and the Jets will play in the Hall of Fame game. Again, no surprise. So the Browns and the Jets report a week early to training camp and play four pre-season games as opposed to three. The start of the league year is two weeks from today, March 15, so expect a lot of articles stating the Browns have this free agent or that free agent on their radar. They should have every free agent on their radar. Stay safe and Go Browns.