When the 2022 season began I think damn near everyone saw the issue at DT. Well maybe not quite everyone because Berry apparently thought differently.

Now many say we really need another receiver to stretch the field. Some believe linebacker.

A true free safety is another position that many feel needs to be improved.

From a defensive perspective do you build from the DL back or from the secondary forward?

I know a few people who look around the league and believe that the passing game and a high scoring offense is the way to win. They want the receivers that the Bengals have.

Perhaps you have to begin and look at the teams current roster. After that you have to analyze your cap position and draft capital. What are you able to do? Are there trades you can make to improve the team?

Jim Schwartz has the reputation of defensive line development. He wants pressure from his front. He believes quarterback pressure is imperative.

The failure of 2022 began and ended with the defense's inability to stop the run. We were exploited all year when it came to stopping the run. We had great difficulty getting the defense off the field.

IMO Berry and Stefanski looked at the team and decided we have to fix the DL. Woods was fired. Jim Schwartz was hired to fix the DL and put an end to communication issues on defense.

We don't have a first round pick. Cap space is something that can be manipulated. Berry knows his job.

Number one in my book remains from last year. Fix the DL. We have to get a run stopping defensive tackle.

The front four rotation at DE and DT has to succeed no matter the down or who is in there. We have to look at the DL as a unit. That means quality play on every down.

It will be interesting to see how Berry will proceed and who is added.

The number 1 need is a WR that can score from any part
Of the field. When was the last time the Browns had
A WR that really put fear in a secondary?
osh Gordon in 2013?
And before him who was it. ?
Playoff teams are driven by QBs WRs and pass rushers
The Browns have 2 of the 3.

I think DT and backer are the top.

We have no DT's and taki might be the only backer, and he isn't that good. JOK isn't a backer.

Defensively the first thing you do when building a team is find Pass Rushers whether that be from DEs, DTs, or LBs. If your opponent doesn't have time to throw than it doesn't matter who you have in the secondary. The problem we have at DT is that our staff preferred smaller penetrating DTs and none of the guys we had are very good at that, Bryan is probably the best but on a good team he would be a backup. Right now we have holes at both DT spots, RDE, FS, and as of this moment our starting LBs would be JOK, Phillips, and Fields because Jones, Walker, and Takitaki are all Free Agents. Hopefully Berry and KS can get these holes filled with quality players because our window of opportunity is closing quickly.

Like baseball, I believe you must be strong up the middle, so FS, MLB(s), DL brute as first minimum, then branch out. Don't think you can favor one level over another beyond a certain part. But again, it's not dependent on which scheme; moreso, it is how you play it. Statistically, zone may be better and more used; I think it is most popular. But if you play it badly with huge cushions, slow reactions, wrong first moves, and fails, it needs fixed to become more aggressively effective. We weren't good in a lot of it. You owe it to the team to win your war. I am excited to see this bully play out of us.

Absolutely everything said above and before on other threads is 100% correct (DTs, LB, FS, WR, correct use of JOK, etc.....).

But truly the number one need for our Browns is the convergence of the obvious tangibles with the heretofore elusive intangibles for one entire season (the things we've been arguing about since around 2002). AKA: luck.

But that's true for any NFL team.

Number one need for Schwartz's defense to work is a quality interior d-lineman.

Would not surprise me to see the Browns go after Javon Hargrave. Daron Payne or Dalvin Tomlinson would be a nice consolation prizes.

Defensive Tackle is #1 priority.

A true free safety is #2 unless they move Martin Emerson there.

They do need another wide receiver to stretch the field. Offense needs to be more explosive than 2022.

Then a Defensive End to replace Clowney.

Considering they gave out a guaranteed 230 million dollar contract, three first round draft picks and more, I'm not sure that what the teams #1 need is will take precedence. Everyone has a different perspective and angle as to what the #1 need is.

For this FO I think they will consider making that contract payoff in a big way to show the fan base they know what they're doing ranks #1 on their priority list. The Browns are a billion dollar plus corporation. I know as fans people think about them as a sport and they are. But they are professional businessmen. A return on their investment and growing their value is their first priority as it is and as it should be with all corporate entities. But sometimes I think fans lose sight of that.

Looking at my priority list it would be at least one strong DT in the middle. A true FS and help at the LB'er position.

But when I consider that same question as it pertains to how the FO may view it, getting watson another quality target my be their biggest priority. You have to appease to the fan base and sell watson after what they paid for him. A lot of the newer generation of fans and even some of the older ones, prefer to see a high scoring, gun slinging, highlight feel type of a game. And as we've seen, the tendency of the NFL is to cater to that for anyone who can get a QB with an arm. Great defensive games don't hold the value and attention of the average NFL fan the way they used to. We hear games like that referred to as sleepers and snooze fests.

As such I think the Browns will consider a top WR the #1 priority. A high scoring team puts butts in the seats and sells merchandise. A top 10 defense? Not so much.

Someone to compliment Garrett and also someone to spell him in game.

1) WR threat
2) DT
3) LT
4) TE depth
5) DB (because you always need more)

One could say WR but being blue in the face with 20 years + with the screen name, nobody listens anyway, I mean,
only after they address defense twice, then their tertiary wants at defense then a lineman or kicker,
they'll get around to Wr. Again,
no,
not here, this @uestion is number one need. so, apart from repenting, getting Jesus, stopping serving false gods', only football related,
there has to be a change of thought. so, hate to say it, I think the number one need,
the number one need, is getting rid of Berry and Depo.
and if it had to be only one of those, Berry, ouch. How could I not pick Depo,? Who is doing more harm to the Browns winning? Berry or Depo? Can they simply let Berry have another draft? I hope not.
What will it look like after they do more of what they have done for the last 3 to 4 years.

OK, I DON'T KNOW WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT, ... Berry and Depo are the bee's freaking knees, pffff, and uhh, the number one need is wide receiver. SPIT that hurt to say... double frown.

DT hands down and another Veteran WR

Number one need? That's a good question!

I see many already mentioned WR. Having a top-rated QB who should be able to make WRs better. I guess I would not make that a top priority.

DTs? I wonder if the current DTs were hindered by Wood's scheme. The obvious intention was to get quicker tackles. Can Schwartz make do?

My opinion is you can't have enough edge rushers and corners.

If you go back to the time of Joe Montanna, it could be argued that''' that incredibly talented TE that comes around only ever so often might be seven to twelve times harder to ac@uire on a roster than a franchise @uarterback, and everyone knows how valuable a franchise @b is.

Deandre Hopkins, a Disaster of an idea at first reaction,

may not be a complete disaster, probably, but

but surely would not be a hero game changing savior to the Browns chances to try and win the North next year,
another old cast off from another team, trying to re live 20I4, it' is not time to be stuck in 20I8, for an aging guy on the back end of his career? Do you think it will work if they try it, this time?
The same formula they have tried and failed going back to Donte Stalworth.

I don't think they need another veteran WR, a veteran WR won't be available if they are really really good, and that is what they need is a really really good Wr, but, if they go with bond o to hold the bumper in place, they will get forseeable bad results.
With a little bit of Just enough to not realize it mixed in.

1. A new GM
2. A new HC
3. 1 WR. 2 DT. 2 LB. 1 FS.


Special request. A new owner and asap get rid of DePodesta.

This organization will never be successful enough to compete with the very best like KCC and the Niners with this leadership. As always our best season is off season when nobody play games.

I was listening to Jason and Travis Kelce on New Heights when Gronk visit them and their silence when talking about the Cleveland Browns said it all. Three elite player with What we see as what we get. multiple SB wins between them and they all just shake their heads and laughed when talking about being drafted by their childhood team. Travis expression said it all.

It’s all there to see right in front of us.

Bad decision making.
Lack of leaders with a winning mentality.
Lack of accountability.
Lack of a player friendly culture.


Results don’t lie. What we see is what we get.

The rant about the front office aside, I still think it is DT.

The reason I say that is when you look at the two groups, the wide receiver room at least offers a glimmer of hope that one of the young guys can turn in to something close to decent. I think a guy like Woods offers some hope of being a fairly decent player. I don't see that with Tommy Togiai.

One also has to consider the starters in those groups. The starters at receiver are much better than the starters at DT. As it stands today, the DT room is much weaker than the WR room. One could also consider the TE room as part of the receiving group.

This is just a question.

If you believe the HC and GM can not succeed. You want to get rid of Depodesta.

You dislike the owner for the Watson trade and you hate Watson.

Why pay any attention to the Browns?

Haslam owns the team and I have not heard he has intentions to sell. Apparently Haslam believes in his front office.

Watson is under contract for five or more years.

If you dislike everything about the team and organization. Why bother following the team? You were not born into it. It's not like your parents were Browns fans and raised you into the Browns.

I read some people on this Board and they sound miserable. Like they really suffer watching the team. I don't get it.

My expectations for the team was to win ten games maybe more if DW was going to be suspended 6 games. When the suspension turned to eleven. Expectations went down. However, i still enjoy following the team. I find things that I like. I hate losing as much as anyone. I have been closely following the Browns since 1960. I was born on Lake Erie. My father was a fan. I have seen it all. 1964 I was in eleventh grade the last championship. I watched 1-31. It was real bad. But because of being so bad I saw that accumulation of draft assets might lead to talent.

One team goes home the winner. All the rest lose. I accept that. It is damn hard to win a Super Bowl. But if you enjoy football or any sport you know the journey rarely reaches the top. I love fly fishing. Most of the time it is fishing not catching. You know that. But enjoy what it takes and when it does happen. You enjoy it more because you know what it took.

If it is all gloom and doom. Find what gives you more enjoyment.

This right here.

DT - true FS - DE - Speedster WR - DT.

Every other need is depth. An upgrade at LB might be nice - but until when we've seen quality DT's in front of them and how Schwartz plays them, I think there is every chance the LBs we have on the team are good enough.

I get as frustrated as anyone but I still look forward to football season and am on this board every day to see what's going on. I still love my Browns and always hope things will get better. The day they win a Super Bowl will be one of the happiest days of my life!

That is what being a fans is.

the vast majority does as well. The small minority tend to be loudmouths wanting the words to be heard(read)

The FO and HC deserved to be ranted about but that doesn't change the current situation.

In 2022, after the acquisition of Watson, the Browns had the following areas of need: worst DT's in the NFL, weak WR room, questionable LB's, no FS, weak at one corner, questions at center, and questionable LT play.

Enter 2023 off season after posting a worse record than the year before, what's the questions and needs this off season: worst DT's in the NFL, not weak but still questionable WR room, still questionable at LB, no FS, corner fixed - or is it with Ward's highly questionable play, still questions at center, still questionable play at LT, and now concern that our 230M QB play was less than expected in his 6-game return.

If the Browns are to contend, they must fix the problem areas, but the play of the players must get better too. I look at the 6-teams left (CIN, BUF, KCC, PHI, DAL and SFO) and wonder, how do the Browns compare?

Defensively (based only on performance), how many Cleveland Browns could even crack the starting lineups of the final 6 teams? Garrett at DE for sure but any other DL on the team - NOPE. How about LB - NOPE. Maybe one of our corners would start on one of the six - Ward would be a guess but not with his 2022 performance. Would any of our safeties even have a smell of starting - NOPE. Some might try to say JOK is our best LB and could, but I ask - is JOK better than Parsons, Milano, Gay Jr, Reddick, or Greenlaw? Maybe a start on CIN but I wouldn't hold my breath.

No, you don't need to have the best at each position, but you can't survive with 8-9 of your players on defense performing in the bottom half of the league.

Offensively, if you're truthful, you're disappointed in the progress of Watson over those 6-games. Will he get better? I'm confident in that - but will he be the same Watson as 2020 - I don't know. At WR, the Browns went out and got Cooper to be their #1. DPJ is a work in progress and has shown good improvement, but the question remains, how good is the Browns WR room? Is Cooper a #1 or #2 in Cincy? We already know he wasn't the #1 in Dallas. Would he be the #1 or #2 in PHI? For sure not the #1 in BUF but could he be a #2? Debo would certainly start before Cooper - maybe a chance in KC? Cooper might be the Browns #1 but clearly not the #1 on most of the remaining playoff teams, What about DPJ? Is he even a #3 on any of those teams? Maybe, but nothing for sure if you're truthful. WR must get better and the window is closing faster than most believe. The Browns guards and RT would start most likely on all of the above teams. Center is a question mark because no one knows if the Browns are going to resign Pocic or are they going to revert back to Harris who's definitely a question mark. Wills is a huge question at LT whether you want to admit it or not. Ranked 60th in 2022 PFF of all tackles is problem enough but being ranked 31st in PFF for LT's that started the minimum games this year is a huge problem going forward. LT is not a position where you can continue to play the wait and see game. TE has improved (only taken 6-years) but I'm not sure the production warrants being paid top five money. That boat has sailed but the Browns need more production out of Njoku, now.

Rank__Player and Annual Salary______Yds Receiving______TD's_____Games Played
1.___Travis Kelce (KC) [2nd 14.3M]_____1,338___________12_________17
2.___T.J. Hockenson (MIN)_____________ 914____________6_________17
3.___Mark Andrews (BAL) [4th 14M]_____ 847____________5_________15
4.___Evan Engram (JAC)_______________766____________4_________17
5.___George Kittle (SF) [1st 15M]_______ 765___________11_________15
6.___Pat Freiermuth (PIT)______________732____________2_________16
7.___Dallas Goedert (PHI) [3rd 14.25M]__ 702____________3_________12
8.___David Njoku (CLE) [5th 13.86M]____ 628____________4_________14

IMHO, the Browns have a lot of holes to be filled. Truthfully, the likely hood of all that happening this off season is just wishful thinking. Unlike the 2022 off season, my wish list would be for the Browns to at least fix two of the question marks where the team doesn't have to worry about them for the next 3-4 years. The one-year contract cut and paste method isn't working. Please FO, fix something long-term - anything!

Exactly. If you look at the gameday threads there are a very few posters that are constantly whining like junior high girls the entire game, ......"so and so sucks" , "he's worthless", "that's game!" (after a negative play in the first quarter). They spend the entire game pizzing and moaning. I'm sure they come here because nobody can stand watching a game with them in person. A lot of good people won't even post in the gameday thread because of them. One in particular hates everything Cleveland and posts non stop throughout the games. During the Cavs championship season, he predicted a loss in every playoff game and series, and kept up with the whiny negativity all the way to the trophy hoist. These people seem to get bummed when we have a good play or actually win a game. Seriously, why watch?

I get that some people are just miserable all of the time, and they have some internal need met by trying to bring others down with them. Sadly, a place like this is the safest venue for them to act out, with the mildest of repercussions. You absolutely couldn't get away with that crap in public.

For myself I would never watch a game with people that fit your description.

They would rather spew negativity and be glad when they are correct; than win and be wrong.

When Cody Kessler was named the starting quarterback. I knew we would be lucky to win a game. I still watched. Looking for guys that I thought might turn out to be good players and a part of a possible future.

It is not being blinding positive. It 1986 and 1987 I knew we were one of the best teams in the NFL. Those two loses to end our season were brutal. They hurt bad. Then we lost the team. I quit watching football altogether until the return.

I follow one team. I don't care much at all for what happens once our season ends. If the playoffs produce a good game I will watch it. Once it becomes lopsided I stop. I would rather start looking at free agency and the draft.

I hope I live long enough for the Browns to win the championship. But if they don't. It does no matter all that much. They were still my team.

We need DL help in the worst way. Both DT and DE. We are really soft up front

Agreed Bone. The Browns are like someone you're in love with that treats you lousy but you just can't let go. I've put up with it for 55 years. I don't think I could ever let go LOL!

Why would you say that? I mean it's a simpleton answer to a much deeper issue. Just look at the record of HC hires since Halsm has owned this team. Look at the list of QB's this team has had since Haslam has owned this team. I could go on and on. Yet you wish to dismiss the entire body of evidence of Haslam's time her as the owner to blaming people not liking him to a single event? To say that is shortsighted would be an understatement. Many people didn't like Haslam well before watson even came into the picture.

Oh the irony. All about the personalities with no substance. It sounds like you're wanting to be heard.

If you have read Floquino and his history to the Browns. Then you would know his path to following the team is short.

He has made it clear. His dislike for Haslam does not go back far because he has become a fan of the team in recent years. If I remember correctly what he posted when he first starting on the Board in 2020.



If fact that is not even the point really. He seems to dislike just about everything related to the Browns.

My question was directed to Floquino.

Flo is a nice guy, but he's a Baker fan. Nothing wrong w/that in and of itself. However, I remember him when he first started posting on here a lot a few years ago. Everytime negative comments were made about Baker, he would come on here and tell us to get behind the team. To cheer them on. To be supportive. Everything was bright and rosy. Fast forward and now we get posts where we are so inept and he even called us the "Clowns."

I asked Flo a question.

Not even remotely an attack. A simple question. I am not passing any kind of judgement. He is more than welcome to criticize Haslam, DW, KS, AB.

I just wanted to know that if it is painful following the team why do it?

There is plenty of things to pursue in life that are enjoyable. In fact that goes for anyone who is a constant state of misery following the Browns.

I did not think you were attacking Flo.

I think there are very few if any people in "a constant state of misery following the Browns."

I believe that is an imaginary scenario created in the minds of those that think anyone questioning a team whose record has went from a playoff team to 8-9 then 7-10 feels that way. It doesn't.

I didn't mean to imply that.

It was all just a question

Agree... when I was younger I'd like the outcome of the Browns or Buckeyes affect me... I'd be pissed for a week when we lost... now, while I'm still a fan, I realize that whatever the Browns do has zero affect on my life... I can't control what they do... so I just cheer and pray for the best...

With that said... I'd like for us to improve our DBs and DL... especially with Clowny gone, we need another rusher

Receiving core has issues. Perhaps not major issues but still. DL has issues. Those issues are bigger. LB core has issues along the lines of the DL. Secondary has issues. And so on.

The bigger question re: on field is Watson. Imo, which really doesn’t mean anything, Watson will not play out his contract here. I would be unsurprised if the Browns deal him after 3 years. One small thing that underscores a problem is one of the OL, I think Bitonio, said they were going to have to change their blocking because Watson holds the ball. Add that to a receiving core needing help and we are starting a bit behind the 8 ball.

So, I hope that the Browns can improve. At the same time I would be unsurprised if they miss the playoffs next year.

If you have watched the games this weekend, the DL difference is pretty apparent. Especially with the NFC teams.

Getting pressure with 4 makes a big difference.

I look at the Titans before and after and then the Eagles before and after a big time Wr like A.J. Brown? is that his name? went from one to the other and I think,
how many years does it have to be obvious. Big time WR's score so many points and in the NFL it is such an exclusive level of play and level of needing to score a lot of points against the best defenses in the world,
that WR has to almost always be the number one need. In spite of the glaring hole at Middle Defensive line.
Every year we see it I think. A great WR can do so much for the whole team, offense defense, both.

Our number one need is a super bowl, period. But I think LT/OL is our biggest need. I can think of 230 million reasons to have the best online in the NFL next season. If we can't get and keep DW going and clean, we aren't going anywhere. DT, LB, and WR are our other glaring needs IMO. We also need to fix the run defense. The run D killed us this year.

The Bengals proved 2 years in a row you don't need a elite
Oline to get to the playoffs. But you do need playmakers
At TE and WR

I'm willing to put BIG money on that one. Wanna wager? And I want this one to be worth my while.




I don't believe that. Please provide a link. Btw----Baker Mayfield led the league in holding the ball the longest in our playoff year and it wasn't close.

I think he does hold the ball, but not out of indecision. He may hold the ball while waiting for a receiver to shake open.

Or while he tries to decipher a D since he hadn't done much of that in games for two years. Defenses evolve every year, I wouldn't be surprised if he saw some things he never saw before. The league has tape on him playing very well, I'm sure some of these teams have found his weaknesses and probably exploited that with DW not 100% up to speed.

I don't doubt there was some of that.

He held the ball too long this year. No doubt. I think that those predicting Watson continuing to struggle next year have an ulterior motive. I would be absolutely shocked if Watson plays poorly next year. I'm talking less than a 0.05% chance of that happening. The Baker fans want it to be so and continue to dog Watson on here, but I don't see it becoming reality.

Grrr...typed a bit regarding this topic then I saw the Salami available at Nuts.com and I clicked on it and lost my post...lol

Short version. We need most of all TEAM SPEED!!!

j/c:

I don't care if it comes from the interior or the outside, but the defensive front needs more pass rushing ability outside of Garrett. That's my #1 need at this point.

Dear God man, what does any of this have to do with Baker? You're like a dog who has been hanging on to the same bone for almost a year now. I'll send a note to the chef to throw you a fresh one because you really need it. This one has gotten old and stanky.

I can show you what I think they're talking about but I think they may very well be taking it out of context.


And now back to your regularly scheduled Baker rant.......

Must be some salami

I had to go to the site and make sure... Looks like some really good salami. I'd go with the Calabrese.

There is no draft thread yet.

So, I didn't know where to put this. A number of posters have listed wide receiver as the top need.

I took a quick look at the top ten posted by PFF:
https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-top-10-wide-receiver-rankings

Number nine is Jalin Hyatt from Tenne. listed as a day two guy.

I looked at a little of his film. "A little."

Damn this guy looked good. Smooth and moving a lot faster than the others on the field.

"The 2022 Biletnikoff Award winner had the most impressive big-play season at the position in college football. Hyatt went for 1,267 yards and 15 scores while averaging 18.9 yards per catch."

I have not done a deep dive at all. But last year I saw Pickens and could not believe he was a second day pick.

This guy Hyatt looks for real. Biletnikoff winner award does not come in a cereal box.

I am going to keep an eye on this guy.

Here is the link for the top ten defensive tackles:
https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-top-10-defensive-tackle-rankings

What would you call poorly? If we don't make the playoffs? If a losing record can be attributed to him? This is an honest question. I expect us to make the playoffs for the investment and I think it's the least we should expect. But I'm also prepared to give him a pass if the coaching blows again next year. Or if we are injury-riddled. I just want a steady dose of elite QB play.

Being a Vol fan I was highly impressed with Hyatts production
In 2022. Especially against elite competition like schools
Like Alabama. If you play at a high level vs NFL caliber starters
At the college sometimes it gives a preview of things to come.
Hyatt has a extra gear to blow past CBs playing zone or man
When was the last time the Browns had a WR that could
Blow the top off a defense.?
You score 5 TDs vs Alabama and 15 for the year...that's not
A accident

I am glad you replied. Thanks.

I don't watch much college ball just the giant games. So, it is welcomed that he is a guy you have seen a lot of.

I watched his highlight tape which of course shows his top plays. But right away you can see he pulls away from people. He has a long stride that reminds me of Josh Gordon.

I am going to key in on him through the draft process. He is the only receiver I have looked at because the PFF site has him going in day two.

I have a suspicion that he will rise up the draft Board.

I posted this on the Off season Upgrades thread. It's about some WRs that might be available when we draft. Hyatt is mentioned in that group.



The draft might be the way to go for a WR. It's a weaker class than the previous few years, bu there is talent that should be available to us. Here are a few guys.

Jalen Hyatt, Tennessee. Had a great season for the Volunteers. He had 67 receptions for 1,267 yards this season. That was 4th best overall. His 15 TDs tied for first overall. Won the Biletnikoff Award last week. Had over 200 yards and 5 TDs against Alabama. Extremely fast. Just runs by guys. Did not play against Man Press very much, so it is unknown if he will be able to run routes against better competition.

Jaxon Smith Najigba, The Ohio State University. Was a preseason Heisman candidate after leading the Buckeyes in catches and yards on a team that had first round picks, Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson. Was hurt almost all year and that will lead to his stock falling. Doesn't possess elite speed, but catches a lot of deep passes. Great hands, expert route runner. His game last year in the Rose Bowl was one of the best ever. Some say he will go in the first round. PFF has him slipping to the 2nd. He will probably work out of the slot.

Rome Odunze, Washington. Had a really good year. Tall at 6'3". Good speed down the field. Explosive after the catch. Strong hands. Sometimes, he catches the ball w/his body. Quick in tight spaces, but not a quick twitch athlete.

Not sure where I got the information. Might have been PFF????

Thx.

It is that time when I begin the slow process of scouting the draft.

Because we are out of the first round. I will probably look at possible second round picks at DT, Wr, DE, FS.

After the second round it just gets so cloudy. I will just wait till after the draft and then go look at tape on the selections made.

The thing about is that going into the season
He wasn't the number 1 WR at UT...that was Cedric Tillman.
Hyatt and Bru McCoy were kinda 2 and 3 in Heupel's
Fastbreak offense. Hyatt really seized the moment
When Tillman got hurt.
He seized it and never let it go.
That tells me he has a work ethic and drive to succeed
Traits that separate good from average...good from great

I have always believed the old say of "the tape doesn't lie."

I have to amend that to a degree. "If you have the eyes to see."

Sometimes I read comments by people and I wonder what are they looking at? Because what they post sometimes does not indicate they are really seeing what is on the tape.

When you turn the tape on of Hyatt you see fast and smooth. I have to really dig into his tape to see all the nuances of what good receivers can do.

I think Hyatt checks a lot of boxes. The unknown about him is probably two-fold. Can he beat Press Man and can he run routes. Due to Heuppel's Modified Spread offense, Hyatt was not asked to do either. He just lined up and ran past guys. That was a common theme on several reports. Not saying he can't do those things, but there is just not enough evidence. Had he done so, he would be a high first round pick.

The thing about Hyatt is that the Browns can draft
Him and he doesn't have to have that pressure of
Being " the man" in the passing offense.
He can come in learn all the WR spots on the field
His resume is better than Bells and Schwartz's.
Maybe the Browns will find a legit WRs coach also.

Hyatt would be a great value pick in RD 2
If a team like the Texans or Colts don't snag him
1st

And that's the one biggest thing fans need to keep in mind. The cream generally rises to the top. The cream will be gone. No matter who they draft in the second round there will be some questions that surround them. At that point you just have to sort out which ones remaining on the board have the fewest questions.

Watched some tape (not a whole lot out there that didn't spend most of the time showcasing his pitch-and-catch vs Alabama). This seems like a pretty fair scouting report as it echoes a lot that my eyes saw... I'm always concerned with WRs that look a bit too 'slight'. I'd like to see about ten pounds of muscle, it shouldn't affect speed too much. Dude gets to full speed pretty quickly and looks like he has good hands. There's a decent chance he'll be there at #43.


NFL Draft Profile: Jalin Hyatt, Wide Receiver, Tennessee Volunteers

Jalin Hyatt
Tennessee Volunteers
#11
Pos: WR
Ht: 6002
Wt: 175
DOB: 9/25/2001
Hometown: Irmo, SC
High School: Dutch Fork
Eligibility: 2023

One Liner:
Hyatt is an elite vertical threat who offers some upside on schemed touches, but he’s a lean slot receiver who runs a limited route tree in an unconventional offense with an underdeveloped release package.

Evaluation:
Hyatt possesses legitimate track speed and should run a 40-time in the high 4.2s or low 4.3s. He plays with excellent foot speed, which helps him set up cuts in his routes and win against press coverage. The junior offers instant burst off the line of scrimmage with lethal acceleration to stack defensive backs. His long strides and explosiveness help him quickly eliminate the defensive back’s cushion when he faces off coverage. Hyatt puts in effort blocking for wide receiver screens and run plays, but his lack of play strength prevents him from excelling in this role. Fortunately, there’s room to add mass to Hyatt’s frame, assuming it doesn’t sap his explosiveness.

He appears to have sufficient arm length to expand his catch radius and make receptions outside of his frame. Some of Hyatt’s best wins come on post, curl, sluggo, and go routes. He tracks the ball well and has examples of soft-hand catches. Hyatt scares college defenses when put in motion, and his speed makes him an excellent option for clear-out routes. The South Carolina native displays good snap at the top of curl routes, but there are instances where he struggles to sink his hips.

Hyatt is a lean receiver who appears high-hipped. His play strength and lack of contact balance prevent him from generating yards after contact, and many of his routes are more rounded than crisp. Hyatt’s play strength shows up against press coverage. He struggles to fight through jams and has trouble creating separation against aggressive corners, who can bump the Fred Biletnikoff Award winner off his route.

Hyatt struggles to combat the hands of defensive backs in press coverage. He needs to fill out his underdeveloped release package and become more comfortable hand-fighting with defenders. Hyatt lines up pre-snap with a high and upright stance, which provides a big target for defenders. The All-SEC receiver generates yards after the catch with speed, but he’s not elusive or twitchy in small spaces. He runs a limited route tree in Tennessee’s space-manufacturing offense and benefits from primarily playing in the slot. Hyatt has a poor feel for holes in zone and doesn’t always work back to his quarterback when the play breaks down.

Drops remain a slight issue, and there are several examples of body catches on Hyatt’s tape. Despite his speed, the former four-star recruit doesn’t consistently generate separation coming out of his cuts. Hyatt doesn’t always run routes full speed on plays not designed to his side of the field, which frequently occurs in Tennessee’s offense. He has limited to no special teams experience with the Volunteers.

Grade:
3rd Round

Background:
Hyatt was a four-star recruit from Dutch Fork High School in Irmo, S.C. in the class of 2020. He was the No. 197 recruit according to 247Sports, No. 194 for Rivals, and No. 174 for On3.com. Hyatt was an unranked four-star recruit for ESPN with an 80 grade out of 100. He originally committed to Virginia Tech before flipping to Tennessee. Hyatt committed to the Volunteers over offers from Arkansas, Kentucky, Miami, Michigan, Nebraska, Penn State, Virginia, Wake Forest, West Virginia, and other Power 5 programs. He holds Dutch Fork’s career records in receiving yards (3,624) and receiving touchdowns (57). Hyatt spearheaded back-to-back undefeated seasons capped with South Carolina Class 5A state titles in 2018 and 2019. He was a finalist for South Carolina’s Mr. Football award in 2019 when he caught 66 passes for 1,361 yards and 26 touchdowns. Per MaxPreps, Hyatt produced 71 receptions for 1,316 yards and 21 touchdowns as a high school junior and 43 receptions for 947 yards and ten touchdowns as a sophomore.

He won four consecutive 5A state championships in high school and earned offensive MVP honors in the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas. Hyatt reportedly ran a 4.31 laser-timed 40-yard dash at The Opening Regional. He’s also credited with running a 10.46 100-meter dash and 21.14 200-meter dash. Hyatt has been playing football since he was five years old. His younger brother (Devin) plays football at IMG Academy. His father played college basketball, and his mother was an All-State sprinter. Hyatt was born on Sept. 25, 2001. He won the Fred Biletnikoff Award in 2022 and earned a First-Team All-SEC selection.


https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/jalin-hyatt

Like you said. "What was he asked to do?"

That is super important when looking at college players. The skills taught in the pros will include things like downfield blocking.

The nuances of hand use to beat jam press man are skills some of these guys are not taught. The defenses they face and the techniques of the opponents they face are way different in the pros.

Not their fault. IMO you look at what he has. Find out about how he receives and incorporates instruction.

At the college level speed is important. So is the way he receives the ball. How natural is he as a catcher of the football. Can he make contested catches.
I like guys that fight for the ball. Last season I saw tape on George Pickens. I saw a guy who was a demon when the ball was in the air. Like that ball is mine. I love that in receivers. The NFL the corners are good. Guys fight for the ball. Being wide open by ten yards and catching the ball only shows speed or separation. That is fine but you have to have technique and you have to fight for the ball.

Some things can be taught and guys develop. So far all I know of Hyatt is his natural ability.

My first take sparked interest because he looks naturally gifted.

Guys kind of naturally fill out. Early twenties there is still growth to come although some guys like Schwartz maybe not.

Some guys you can see they may be slight at 21 but you can tell that he will gain weight and strength.

"His long strides and explosiveness help him quickly eliminate the defensive back’s cushion when he faces off coverage."

Interesting because i saw that and referenced Josh Gordon. Gordon was a long strider. But damn he ate up "off man" coverage real fast. That can kind of stride can be deceptive. Then the dude blows past you.

I like studying draft prospect tape. Skill positions in particular are fun to break down. Line play I can get into as well as the other positions. But I really enjoy guys who touch the ball.

Every draft I will find players that I just like no matter where they play. Then where ever they end up I still pay attention.

In baseball I am go nuts over rookies who I see that really shine in my eyes. The Braves rookie center fielder Michael Harris was called up in like May or June. I told my son this guy is really good. He won ROY. I believe he will win multiple MVP's.

Time to start a Draft Thread.

Not sure how that happens? If it is a site decision?

I am assuming Ref 3 will start it after the Super Bowl.

One more thing, I am not saying whether or not Hyatt should be the guy or not. I was just providing information. Hell, he's the first WR in the draft I talked about.

I have watched one highlight tape and that was Hyatt.

Lot of time and tape to see before april something.

will Ref 1 and 2 be on the sideline during the Superbowl?

https://dawgpounddaily.com/2023/01/26/4-early-contenders-cleveland-browns-second-round-pick-2023/2/

I just watched Rice the Wr.

I like him. Good hands. One thing stands YAC. He has that feel for YAC. He wants it. The tape shows he usually gets past the first guy.

In addition he gets separation.

I only watched his highlight tape but he is a guy to follow.

And as far as 40 times go he wasn't fast either. But in terms of WR's quickness has always been more important than speed.

Cleveland Browns: Daron Payne
How do you fix an ailing run defense? Well, signing a 6-foot-3, 320-pound Pro Bowl defensive tackle could help. Payne would be an ideal complement to Myles Garrett on Cleveland’s D-line. It’s imperative for the Browns to add a big body alongside their star pass-rusher.

https://www.nbcsports.com/chicago/bears/one-free-agent-player-fit-every-nfl-team-2023

RUN STUFFING DEFENSIVE TACKLE BOTH IN FA AND THE DRAFT ...

I liked that you went all caps

He must be super duper serious.

Browns: Which 2023 NFL Draft wide receivers could add explosiveness to the offense?
Jacob Roach
Thu, January 26, 2023 at 7:20 AM EST

The offense of the Cleveland Browns has continued to be limited by the inability to stretch the field vertically. The plan was for Anthony Schwartz to fill that role but two years in there hasn’t been much success as the Browns need to improve their wide receiver room. A few players are available in free agency, but the best route may be through the 2023 NFL Draft.

This class isn’t as good as last year’s, but there are still some nice receiver prospects in this year’s draft. Let’s take a look at five potential draft targets for the Browns to take the offense to the next level with a home run threat that you must respect deep down the field.

Jalin Hyatt, Tennessee
If you turn on the film of Tennessee’s Jalin Hyatt, one word comes to mind, and that’s explosive. Hyatt possesses elite-level speed and knows how to use it to make big plays. If you want to turn on one game to know how much of a weapon Hyatt’s speed is what the game against Alabama this season.

Against the Crimson Tide Hyatt recorded six catches for 207 yards and five touchdowns. Alabama’s defense is full of players that will be playing in the NFL soon and they had no answer for Hyatt’s raw game-changing speed.

Zay Flowers, Boston College
Boston College’s Zay Flowers possess great speed and he knows exactly how to use it. He possesses great body control and can throttle up and throttle back down really well. Flowers creates a ton of separation and can make people miss in the open field.

Primarily playing from the slot, where the Browns need the most help, he could slide right into the perfect role in Cleveland. It will be interesting to see if the Browns value speed in the slot or from the outside.

Tyler Scott, Cincinnati
When you turn on the film with Tyler Scott you see a player with all the tools and ability to be a good NFL player. Scott has already run a 40 in less than 4.3 seconds before he gets to the NFL combine to turn heads in February. Truly has game-changing speed that can great explosive plays in a hurry.

An above-average route runner he understands how to use his speed with impressive body control. Scott could be the missing piece to the Browns’ offense for a successful 2023.

Marvin Mims, Oklahoma
Another slot receiver with elite speed is the electric Marvin Mims from Oklahoma. Mims averages nearly 20 yards per reception in his college career while averaging 22 and 20.1 per reception in 2021 and 2022 respectively.

This year Mims finally broke 1,000 receiving yards this past season he has shown improvement each year in college. Mims isn’t a great blocker, though he wasn’t asked to do much in college, but has the tools to challenge teams vertically consistently.

Nathaniel Dell, Houston
Nathaniel Dell had a great season for Houston this year with 109 catches for 1,398 yards and an incredible 17 touchdowns. A crisp route runner with quick feet and explosive speed off the line Dell is a big play waiting to happen. Dell can create extra yardage in the open field with his speed and ability to change direction quickly.

The concerns with Dell come from his smaller frame and injury risk with his overall lack of speed. He can struggle in press-man coverage to get off the line but if he is given an inch he can great big plays consistently.

Long time till the draft but after a quick look at Hyatt.

Guys like him don't get to the second. I see him on some sites as a second day pick. But as time goes by and guys like him rise quickly.

Speed, production, decent size, football school.

I am not saying that he won't be able to separate at the LOS against Press-Man or that he can't run routes, but I think it is an error in judgement to not be cautious of him never showing that he can do those things in college. And those are the reasons why he might be a Day 2 choice.

The NFL is littered w/really fast guys that excited people during the draft only to do next to nothing in the NFL.

Agree. Hyatt ran a bunch of go routes where his natural athleticism won out. I would not have an issue with the Browns taking him in the second but I'd be quite surprised if he was a Day one pick.

Haslam would be doing cartwheels down the hallway.

Josh Downs should be added to this list of potential WRs for the Browns to target.

In reality, I will be surprised if the Browns go WR with their 2nd round pick. Especially, if they give DPJ a contract extension this offseason.

I will preface this by stating that the Browns rarely do what I want them to do in the draft, so my thoughts probably don't mean much.

I am leaning towards getting a WR or two in the draft because the price of FA WRs has skyrocketed in the last year. We saw it w/guys like Adams, Hill, Deebo, AJ Brown and even guys like Christian Kirk. Furthermore, this year's FA WR class isn't all that and I think a guy like Tee Higgins is a pipe dream. I think our FA money would be more wisely spent on filling other needs such as Interior DL, Edge, etc.

Not saying I am right, but that is my line of thinking.

I do not disagree. I envision a scenario where the Browns do not use 2nd on a WR, but rather further down the draft. Maybe a cheap FA WR like Mecole Hardman like Memphis had mentioned.

Just talking.

College. What was he asked to do? What routes did he run?

I think you look at what a guy has in college. Then you have to forecast the guy. Rookies take time to learn pro techniques.

DPJ is an example even though he was a late pick. Bell? Rookie. We really don't know yet what he can do.

Beating press is learning hand techniques. He probably never had to learn it. College players are not finished products.

Can he get open and catch the ball is where you start. Speed is an asset but you have to know how to use it and you have to catch the ball.

The draft is all about where is he now and where can he be.

I have not seen the other receivers in this draft. So, I really don't know where he will go. But what he has usually goes pretty fast.

I believe that when it comes to NFL owners and FO's their goal is to market the team and put on the best show they can for the fans. In Haslam's very first press conference he said "It's a marketing world". The NFL only allows teams to change uniforms every five years. Haslam has done so every five years to market new gear. I'm not saying there's anything wrong with that but it points out that he employs that strategy at every possible turn. They committed to the 230 million dollar man. That's one helluvan investment. Giving him quality targets will be the #1 goal during the off season. Vers is right that the price of FA WR's has skyrocketed. I'm not sure that will stop the Browns from signing one, but if not you can bet they'll have the WR as a high draft priority. They will make building the team around watson priority #1. I'm not saying there's anything wrong with that either. It just wouldn't make any sense to sign a QB to a 230 million dollar guaranteed contract and not give him all the weapons he needs to help insure and maximize his success.

DJ Chark could be another option. I like him a fair amount.

His injury history is concerning. If he came cheap, might be worth a shot

I would prefer to use the draft to fill other positions. Sign a couple of FA veteran WR instead - DJ Chark / Mecole Hardman are great examples. Jakobi Meyers, Noah Brown and Smith Schuster others. For a speedster Philip Dorset might be viable, but I have not seen him play much so idk if he still has the same speed he once did.

A 5'7 192 pound DT.

So you're going to try out for the team again?

Damn skippy

FYI FA starts March 15

Once Hyatt shows up and does all the drills including 40 time he is going to shoot up the board and be no where near us when we pick.

It is said to be a bad prospect year for WR...that means nobody will be left - don't waste your time on draft class positions that are considered weak....look at the prospects of positions of draft class that is considered STRONG...that is who will be there when we pick.

Jmho on elementary draft breakdowns

The #1 need is to have Stefanski give up play calling.

And give play calling to who?

Is there some kind of proof that AVP would do better?

First off play calling is collaborated between KS, AVP, and Callahan.

The first series is scripted from the game plan developed during the week.

“Watson has stated that he came here in part because of Stefanski and that he wholeheartedly believes in him in that role. I think the two will work hard together to tailor the game plan to Watson’s strengths in the offseason, and will implement a retooled offense in the spring, with more explosive downfield passing, more designed runs, and so much more.” — Mary K Cabot on Stefanski calling plays."

Play calling is overestimated. What counts is execution.

It's been suggested that Stefanski give up play calling duties so he can concentrate more on other aspects of being a HC. I vigorously disagree w/him giving up the play calling duties. I think he is a very good play caller and it would be a mistake to give those duties over to someone else. Play calling is actually one of our strengths as a team.

I think what the Browns did by signing Schwartz was the only logical solution. It's obvious that there are two ways to go about this. Some HC's oversee the entire team. They are hands on in both the D and the O. They allow the OC and DC to make the game plans and call the plays. They oversee the creation of those game plans as well as the implementation of those game plans and step in when adjustments need to be made. Stefanski isn't that guy. And he really doesn't have to be.

There are HC's who run things the same way Stefanski does with much success. They are either former OC's or DC's who simply don't try to run the workings of the entire team. They concentrate on what they do best, either run the O or the D and find competent people to run the other side of the ball. Nobody can predict the future but Schwartz has the resume' to be such a guy. NFL HC experience and a record of success creating good D's. A no nonsense kind of a guy who will demand respect. You can see that one of two ways. You can see it as the Browns actually have two HC's in Stefanski and Schwartz. One HC running the O and one HC running the D. Or you can see it as having an OC in Stefanski and a DC in Schwartz with neither actually filling what one considers a traditional version of the HC role.

Or maybe you see something else all together.

I don't disagree.

In fact I would guess most teams are run closer to the way the Browns are set up.

Once camp is over and the season begins. The routine of preparation for each game sets in. Delegation of responsibilities becomes imperative because there is only so much time. Staffs are larger then they use to be years ago.

The CEO approach is kind of going away.

I agree. I don't think there's a one way or the other is better rule here. Both ways have proven successful. I liken it to people who say they want to see fire from the HC on the sideline. They seem to feel that a leader who remains calm in the face of adversity as a bad thing. Both ways have shown they can be quite successful and I've never seen a stressful situation in my life where I have felt that remaining calm and rational in such a situation wasn't a good thing.

I wonder how many coaches actually have their hands all over both sides of the ball? It might be zero. It might one or two? I doubt it is much more than that. I also doubt that there are very few coaches who don't have any interaction w/one side of the ball or the other? I'd say zero. Maybe one or two? I doubt it is much more than that. I think people on here make this a bigger issue than it is. By a longshot.

I am serious, I am sick of watching teams run the ball down our throats.

Actually I agree with you at least in part. I don't think it's a big deal at all because both ways have been shown to be successful. As far as it goes for the rest of your post I think it's big stretch between "don't have interactions" and even "having their hands all over" something and being pretty much hands off on one side of the ball. I think a simple way to look at that is to see how many NFL HC's allow both of their coordinators to call the plays and schemes on game days and which ones don't. For those that do it seems those HC's oversee the big picture and they permit coordinators to implement the predetermined schemes decided upon during the week. They in turn are overseeing things as they unfold during the course of games and work with both coordinators to tweak things as the game progresses. You can also see it in how a HC divides his time communicating with both coordinators during the actual games.

I'd say that includes far more than one or two. As per usual I think we have people who overemphasize the division of how these two methods are employed and some who wish to underemphasize it. The actuality of it lies somewhere in between.

.

Yes, give the play calling to AVP since that's his job. My proof that he runs a better offense is based on when we slammed the Steelers in the playoff game in their house. When Kevin came back the following week against KC he couldn't get it done and got too conservative.

I don't consider play calling overrated when you refuse to run the ball, don't have Chubb and Hunt in the backfield at the same time, Twin I formation, and then go for the endzone on 4th and 1. I've yet to hear an explanation from him on all those things. Instead all we get some weird fake form of non-human conversation with no emotion.

Freddie Kitchens is a better offensive coordinator\play caller than Stefanski.

Freddie is dumber than an Alabama tree stump. Overall I’m good with one more season of KS as the play caller. His future is tied to what Watson can do next season. Really it’s the bottom line.

I guess those in power in the NFL disagree.

I have heard people complain about play calling for a long time. It makes no difference who is calling the plays people will disagree.

When they are right nothing is said when the play doesn't work they get blamed. The plays are called based upon lots of information. It can all look wrong when it fails. Sometimes the other side makes a play.

So, Kevin is "too conservative" and refuses "to run the ball?"

So, AVP should call the plays. Even though he has never done that in his career.

Based on one game... where it was 28-0 after 12 offensive plays... due to three turnovers by the opponent.

Yeah, no.

I think it does beg to question why an NFL HC would hire and put someone in the position of OC they feel they can't trust to call the plays. Not that it's strictly an issue with the Browns coaching staff.

#1 need....Lombardi in a trophy case in Berea.

About 1/3 of NFL coaches call the plays, most of them have OCs.

It doesn't necessarily mean none of these guys can be trusted to call plays, it usually means the coach is better.

Wouldn't it be even stranger to have no OC regardless of whether you're calling the plays?

That depends on whether you want an OC that can run the offense or not. If not it seems that he's the OC in name only and having that title is rather meaningless. I don't see having a figure head having a title as anything meaningful.

No big deal, others echo your sentiments. I just don't see how the "OC in name only" is a thing when there are so many more duties than calling plays...

Scheme, play design, weekly strategy, roster management, dealing with all the position coaches.

I think fans make it a "in name only" thing, and even belittle the duties, for the sake of complaining about a HC's play-calling.

I won't say he does nothing or doesn't fill a needed role. But let's face it, this is Stefanski's scheme and play designs. Some of it he brought with him from the Vikings and some was his own. I'm not sure why you would give him credit for either the designing of the plays or the scheme. Those are some of the very things people give Stefanski so much credit for. And I would venture to guess that the weekly strategy and roster management are Stefanski's call and not Van Pelt's. Just like you're guessing that it is AVP's.

I guess that's why we disagree in what AVP's title should be. I simply don't see his role quite fulfilling what I think of as a legitimate OC's job to be.

And edited to add. I'm more along the line of thinking that Stefanski is a pretty good play caller. There are very few plays that he calls which I question. I think calling plays that could likely catch the opposing defense off guard is a good thing, not a bad thing and that predictable play calls are easier for the opposing D's to prepare for and stop. People just tend to complain when and if those plays don't work. I've never called for Stefanski to be fired nor do I intend to. I do not by contrast think he's almost perfect or God's gift to coaching. He hasn't had the job of an NFL HC long enough to make that determination IMO. I certainly feel he's the best HC the Browns have had since their return and that's by a huge margin!

Well said. I read some of the comments on here about the job responsibilities of certain coaching positions and just shake my head.

Sometimes I wonder what others think goes on inside a NFL football team.

What goes into preparing a game plan. What type of time is spent handling all the responsibilities of head coaching.

Just as long as he understands 7-10 isn't good enough. He acts okay with it in his press conferences and there's no sense of urgency which pisses me off. Nobody including him said they apologize or were sorry for the bad year.

Personally I don't think Stefanski is the guy to get us to the super bowl. I'd love to be wrong though. I just have ZERO confidence in him.

Not to mention the value of working with someone who has so much experience (basically his whole career) translating to the QB. He may have very well been the catalyst to Brissett looking so comfortable as quickly as he did.

His record is clear. The quarterbacks he has coached have had their best years under him.

That is the essence of coaching. Getting the most from your players.

Once again that seems odd. And in case you didn't notice, at least one of the very people who is agreeing with you has given Stefanski credit for everything I have suggested he does. Until now of course.

He claimed this is Stefanski's sheme, his playbook, he sets the game plan, controls the roster and he is great at getting the most out of the QB's. Now suddenly he acts like he never said those things.

Does anyone even know what he is talking about other than just babbling to try and fight?

I don't know, do you? What I'm talking about has been spelled out in plain English.

You are not even making sense. But, get your last word in. I won't respond and will just end by saying that once again you are making yourself look foolish in your quest to fight w/others.

You see, that's the way you label everything that you disagree with. You claim that any discussion that goes counter to your way of thinking is someone trying to start a fight. It's a very weak attempt to try to undermine any poster who makes any counterpoints contrary to the agenda you wish to push on this board.

And in actuality, I'm agreeing and advocating many points you yourself have made in the past.

You have said yourself that this offense is centered around Stefnaski's playbook and scheme. That he brought much of it with him from Minnesota and that it came from working with Kubiak. That Stefanski brings out the best in the QB's he works with. All of these things are counterpoints I've made in this discussion.

You may wish to ask yourself who it is that's looking foolish at this point.

V-dog, good example....sure has worked in KC. Our biggest need/s- the clock is ticking, the team has talent but each year our "stars" get older- we have liked "cheap youth"- I hope we SPEND for big block eating DT- they young guys are playing against huge/ super talented linemen and they are young, not-fully developed DL who ain't getting it done. Also, we need PROVEN talent at WR- Schwartz and Bell haven't cut it- get a proven product.....GO Browns!!!!

It is a good example - but does anyone think that if Bill Parcels had hired a complimentary coordinator that was coaching poorly, had his side of the ball confused with players saying there was confusion and miscommunication etc, or who had a trend of starting slowly and then getting better after losing winnable games in the first 8 games of each season - anyone think that Bill wouldn't take an active role in fixing that problem? Anyone think he wouldn't take ownership?

Of course, he would have and that's what Reed would do in KC. We don't have that type of HC and he never takes ownership of the team's results. What we do have is an above average OC and a DC that has a good resume, but the accountable HC position has been and continues to remain open.

When has KS not taken accountability?

3 Browns trade targets from the Buccaneers after Tom Brady’s retirement
Jacob Roach
Wed, February 1, 2023 at 8:22 PM EST

For the second time, Tom Brady has announced his retirement from the NFL and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Many are wondering if this is the beginning of a rebuild for Tampa and if so the Cleveland Browns could be buyers. They are in the need of both veteran players and more talent with eight draft picks in this year’s draft.

Though the team isn’t likely to trade for any massive contracts they could still make some moves if they feel the price is right. A look at three players that I believe the Browns could try and target if the Buccaneers become sellers this offseason.

Russell Gage, Wide Receiver

The Browns need a legitimate slot receiver and a player who can stretch the field vertically and that’s exactly what Russell Gage can bring. Gage suffered a neck injury and concussion in the playoffs but assuming he is healthy he is one of the best vertical threats that could be on the market this offseason.

The contract could be a reason to be wary but his production and ability would make this team more explosive. Adding Gage to the slot with Cooper and Peoples-Jones on the outside would be a great trio for quarterback Deshaun Watson.

Cameron Brate, Tight End

The Browns need to find more production outside of David Njoku at tight end and Cameron Brate would be a great complimentary piece. He doesn’t bring elite stats or talent but he is a veteran that is reliable in the red zone and a willing blocker.

The contract isn’t a bad one for the team and likely wouldn’t cost much in terms of compensation for the trade. Brate would raise the basement of the tight end room though not by much.

Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, Edge Rusher

I was very high on Joe Tryon-Shoyinka when he was coming out of Washington in the 2021 draft. The team might not be willing to trade the former first-round pick but if they are the Browns should jump on it.

Tryon-Shoyinka is an incredibly explosive player off the line of scrimmage with good flexibility and hand placement. He has lined up both with his hand in the dirt and as a stand-up rusher and he would fit in great in Jim Schwartz’s defensive scheme.

Why do we think Tampa has given up? True, Tom Brady is leaving. Is the team so far gone they can't bring in another QB? Is the team so depleted of talent they can only win with Bradey?

In my opinion and with the talent they have, by gosh dare I say, Jacoby Brissett?

I'm not saying Brissett is better than Brady by any means. But, Brissett brings a different vibe. If SF can do what they do with their QBs, why can't Tampa? OK, the big question is the coaching staff.

My belief is Tom wasn't fully into playing. I think Tom fooled himself into thinking he was mentally able and wanting to play.

Jacoby has the vibe that could rejuvenate the team. I still question the coaching staff. The investment signing Jacoby is minimal to find the answer.

I think we'll see Jimmy G in Tampa.

I'm rooting for Blaine Gabbert

You might see Lamar there. I also think Jimmy G., Brissett, and Baker (if he doesn't get signed by the Rams) will all land spots to 'compete' for starting positions at a minimum. And I wouldn't be surprised if Brissett doesn't get an offer to start that he ends up back on our roster somehow, but I honestly think he'll get snapped up.

Number one need?

IMO start at DT. Next DE. Maybe safety next if they move on from JJ3.

Receiver is questionable because the roster has quite a few which includes two last year draft picks in Bell and Woods.

One free agent I would check out is Michael Thomas. He is a UFA.

He has missed lots of time recently but in 2022 stilled showed he can play at a high level. He will be 30 in March.

He is listed at number 39 in this years ranking of free agents. His projected salary is one year deal at $12.5.

He is a veteran receiver who knows how to get open and catch the ball. He has had some monster seasons.

He could be a good fit here on a one year deal. He is the type of target that quarterbacks like. I think Cooper, DPJ, and Thomas would be a solid group.

That would give the young guys some veterans to look up too. It could help them develop.

Not sure what Michael Thomas you're talking about, but the Saints Michael Thomas is under contract to the Saints the next two years and for way more than 12.5M. They restructured his contract but most likely will be cut before 3/17 with a post June 1 designation. The link explaining this complicated move is attached.

Michael Thomas Current Contract Restructured 1/7/2023

Year___Age____Base Salary_____Prorated Bonus__Roster Bonus___Per Game Bonus___Workout Bonus____Guaranteed Salary___Cap Number

2023__30_____$1,165,000______$11,993,588____$200,000______$500,000________$200,000_________$0_______________ $13,558,588
2024__31____$18,500,000_______$7,993,588____$32,755,000 ___$750,000________$200,000_________ $0______________ $59,448,588
2025__32_____Void_____________$3,093,588____VOID__________Void____________Void_____________Void______________ $0
2026__33_____Void_____________$3,093,588____Void___________Void____________Void_____________Void______________ $0


2023 salary reduced from $15.5M to $1.165M
$31.755M 2024 roster bonus added, becomes fully guaranteed 3/17/2023

https://saintswire.usatoday.com/lis...ructure-salary-cap-hit-contract-changes/

This guy:

https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-2023-free-agent-rankings-free-agency

39. WR MICHAEL THOMAS, NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Contract Projection: One year, $12.5 million; $10 million total guaranteed

Thomas has missed a ton of time over the past few seasons, but he showed over very limited action in 2022 that he can still be a top pass catcher. With how weak the wide receiver free-agent class is, Thomas may be worth the gamble.

Even in another injury-shortened 2022 campaign, Thomas flashed his elite ability. His 77.4 receiving grade ranked 12th among wide receivers, his three touchdown receptions tied for second and his eight contested catches were the most in the NFL through the first three weeks.

https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/new-orleans-saints/michael-thomas-18996/


Maybe there is updated news but the PFF article is dated 2/6

That 2024 contract year looks interesting, to say the least.

Just read this:
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/20...-and-separate-himself-from-the-rest.html

Growth in a player after a rookie season can be encouraging.

Their rookie year can be overwhelming. Lots to learn. By the end of that first year you have a headful of new information. You look back at your film and game plan needed improvements.

Bell and Woods could show growth. I am not as concerned about receiver as other positions because there are options.

DT and DE are more pressing and in need of real talent. I think the investment should be in free agency. The draft is more development. We need legit starters.

PFF can only be assuming that Thomas will be available which he most likely will be but I'm betting that he won't actually be available until post June 1. It's a fact that he is still under contract to the Saints. I could be wrong but IMHO, getting Thomas for 12.5M when he was scheduled to make base salary of 15.5M in 2023 and 18.5M in 2024 would be wishful thinking. If he can pass a physical, I would expect a multi-year deal from some team. JMHO though.

This was something most of us felt was a problem going into the season. Apparently Berry did not think it was a problem.

I am sure he knows it now.

I don't know what it would take to get him, probably at least a 2nd rnd pick, but there are rumors that the Bengals may be willing to trade Tee Higgins. He is a free agent after this year and supposedly so far contract talks have not gone well, Higgins is rumored to be looking for a huge payout beyond what the Bengals are looking to pay.

Higgins is a #1 WR on a team with another #1 WR.

Love to get him, although he wont end up here. I can see maybe the Chargers if they get rid of Allen

You may well be right.

It will end as fair market value.

2023’s biggest cap hit in the NFL is not Deshaun Watson
Jacob Roach
Wed, February 8, 2023 at 1:48 PM EST

The Cleveland Browns gave quarterback Deshaun Watson a fully guaranteed contract after acquiring him last season. As you would expect his cap number in 2023 is large (before any restructuring of course) but it’s not the league’s biggest. Watson checks in at number two on the list with a 54.9 million dollar hit but the guy higher than that may shock you.

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas carries a cap hit of 59.4 million in 2023. The way the team designed it and pushed money off has the bill finally coming due. There is no way any team will trade for him as things stand and the Saints are likely already working on fixing the number.

I still think WR is the number 1 need on this team.
You give up as much as you did for DW you better put
The weapons around him to help insure you get a return
Investment.
Your falling into that common mindset that you are hoping
For growth and maturation from the Browns WRs.
It's been that way since 1999.
WRs that are drafted in late RDs are drafted their for a reason.
WRs drafted above RD 3 now come into the league and put up big time production
Right away. Their is no wait and see period.
I saw nothing out of David Bell that makes me think he nothing
More than a 3rd WR at best. I didn't see any explosion or suddenness
Or separation from him. What was his longest catch all year
20 yds? He has decent hands but after the catch he does
Nothing
Michael Woods didn't stand out in limited snaps
Look at his production at Oklahoma. Very pedestrian
He couldn't even beat underclassmen downfield.
The Browns have a bottom 5 WR room in the room.
The only WR that can make things happen after a catch
Is Cooper. And even now Cooper is getting close to 30.
Who was the last Browns WR drafted that put in defenses ?

I understand your point of view.

However, IMO a lot depends on where a player lands. He will not always get the targets.

DPJ was a 7th rounder. He has improved each year. I doubt he is alone. In addition Njoku may get way more targets with DW.

Receivers can come from small schools and really need coaching on technique. Woods and Bell came into a unusual situation at quarterback. Woods also was injured. I don't think it can be assumed that neither guy will not be better in their second year.

I think the priority remains interior DL. But I never believe in forcing your draft pick on a position.

When their first pick comes in the second round and there is a receiver there that they have graded high and he is the BPA. Then take him.

Free agency this year probably more than in years past is really important. The draft may depend upon who signed in free agency.

I see four positions were we will be looking for talent DL (both DT, DE), WR, and FS.

Not sure with Schwartz how JJ3 will be viewed. Maybe Schwartz will look at his tape and decide he should be used like the Rams used him. Maybe they think Delpit can take his spot. Maybe they trade for a guy.

At least one free agent DT needs to be signed. Then draft another. Clowney is gone. Is Alex Wright enough?

In the end you look to improve where you see the need. How you improve will depend on how the dominoes fall. It is rarely there is our target we will get him. You are not in control of free agency and the draft. Trade is the only time you control selection.

Maybe this means something. Maybe not.

https://brownswire.usatoday.com/2023/02/09/browns-mocked-mazi-smith-2023-nfl-mock-draft/

There's a difference in hoping a WR will develop and having productive WR's on the roster. When you're paying the 230 million dollar man, hope they will develop isn't enough. Just watch. This ownership and FO have all of their eggs put in one basket. The watson basket and they know it. I don't think any reasonable thinking person believes they'll just leave that to chance in hopes that very unproductive WR's will turn from moths into butterflies. They have too much invested to take that risk on buts and maybes.

Overall a good football post. The Browns should try to upgrade at WR this off-season, via draft or trade, but the jury is still out on Bell and Woods. I don’t like throwing rookie wideouts into the trash. It’s one of the toughest positions for a rookie. Year 2 usually tells us a lot more.

The unknown is who the Browns will or could sign via FA at WR. Depending on that cost structure, I expect the Browns to keep Woods and Bell without question. Schwartz is very border line and could be the guy out unless the Browns cut back on TE's. 2024 is the year where I think there could be big changes at WR with Cooper becoming a cap casualty (saving almost 13M) with DPJ, whomever the Browns sign via FA this year, and either Bell or Woods occupying the 3rd WR slot. The Browns are already 9M plus over the proposed cap for 2024 and that's before any restructures this year, FA signings, or the draft. There will have to be some cap casualties in 2024 and Cooper could be one of the prime suspects to be cut due to it being his final year of his contract at a 23.776M cap charge. Anyway, I expect the Browns to keep the two rookies at least another year.

The Browns will restructure Watson again in 2024. I think the Browns restructure and extend Cooper or just pay him his final year. I see Wyatt Teller as one to be moved as well as either Newsome or Emerson. The Browns may move on from Chubb unless he is willing to extend and restructure. There is not a world where I envision the Browns paying Chubb $16.2M with a dead cap of $4.2M in 2024. This would explode their guardrails.

Denzel Ward will likely be restructured to create cap space in 2024.

I don't think there is a chance we move on From Chubb until he is in his 30's. Weapons like him are few and far between.

You may be right but a lot hinges on what they do this year to create cap space. If they restructure Watson this year and next, the Browns will be looking at a cap charge of over 80M per season for Watson in 2025 and 2026. With Ward, they have already played that game a couple of times so another restructure in 2024 would take his cap charge in 2025 to over 27M and 2026 to over 32M. Add in Garret's cap hits of 29M in 2023, 32M in 2024, 27M in 2025, and 28M in 2026 you're looking at approx 135M or almost 50% of the cap for 3 players in 2025 alone. Bumping Teller in 2024 still leaves a cap hit of 7.6M and only creates 6.2M in cap space. Bumping Chubb in 2024 will create 12.2M in cap space so that is an option but not one I support. In any case, there will be cap casualties in 2024, just depends how deep depending how many more cans they kick down the road. Let's not forget that exercising Wills 5th year option will take him from a cap charge of 6.2m this year to about 15M next year guaranteed, another 9M bump in cap spending with another long-term deal facing them starting in 2025.

I actually agree with you. The hope is these WR's will develop so you don't have to continue to pay FA money to fill the spots. That could be next season, two seasons from now or never. The problem here is that you only have watson signed for four more seasons making huge money and he will need weapons now. I still think you need to develop drafted players but you can't count on them in the moment or pay watson that kind of money and risk wasting one of those remaining four seasons in the hope that these second year players will develop overnight.

I actually think we're on the same page here.

basketry port
basket report

And again..........the thread is being hijacked by you and Pit will help you in that quest. No one is telling you that you can't post your opinions. But please stop hijacking threads w/the same crap over and over. There is a Salary Cap thread. Why not post your thoughts in that one? We all know why.

Back to the thread topic.

I think the Browns will make one big splash FA signing. The rest will be FA will probably be rotational guys or complimentary pieces.

I wonder how much Javon Hargrave will get paid? Has to be a lot, right?

What about Daron Payne? Again, probably a lot.

Zach Allen? Probably substantial, but not quite as much as the two above.

Any of you guys who know a lot about salaries and the market have any idea what type of money these guys will get?

DI JAVON HARGRAVE, PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
Contract Projection: Three years, $55 million ($18.33M per year); $36 million total guaranteed
Hargrave moved from western Pennsylvania over to the East Coast during 2020 free agency and has been a force in Philadelphia, blossoming into one of the elite interior pass-rushers in the NFL over the past few seasons. Since 2020, Hargrave’s 92.2 pass-rush grade trails only Aaron Donald and Chris Jones at the position, with his 18.8% pass-rush win rate also ranking third.
Hargrave will be 30 years old for the 2023 season, but we’ve seen many interior defenders maintain longevity well into their 30s recently. Hargrave is also intriguing, as different responsibilities between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia have led to interesting splits as a run defender or pass rusher. His run-defense grades were much better in his first stop, but it seems he can excel at whatever is asked of him, which is good to know for interested teams that likely don’t frequently deploy a five-man front and do a lot of the other exotic things Philadelphia does up front.

DI DARON PAYNE, WASHINGTON COMMANDERS
Contract Projection: Four years, $80 million ($20M per year); $55 million total guaranteed
Payne showed early in his NFL career that he could be a stout run defender from the nose tackle position, with his 86 defensive stops against the run the most in the NFL from 2018-20. And he has now continued to build on his pass-rush arsenal to the point where he’s a problem for interior offensive linemen trying to keep their quarterback upright. Payne has 95 quarterback pressures since the start of 2021, 10th most among interior defenders, with his 11.8% pass-rush win rate over the same span a very respectable figure on the inside.
Payne still needs to put all his tools together for a complete season where he’s a positive factor in both facets, and he’s shown he has the talent to do just that.

DI ZACH ALLEN, ARIZONA CARDINALS
Contract Projection: Three years, $37.5 million ($12.5M per year); $26 million total guaranteed
Allen has taken advantage of mentorship from future first-ballot Hall of Famer J.J. Watt early in his career, and he took a big leap in 2022. Allen earned his first run-defense grade above 60.0 and first pass-rush grade above 70.0, with a career-best 35 quarterback pressures and 8.3% pressure rate.
Allen could be a big benefactor of the pending market explosion among interior defenders, though he will land in the second or third tier of the position group.

https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-2023-free-agent-rankings-free-agency

Good information. Thanks.

Top Rated FA WR's and projected costs:

7. WR JAKOBI MEYERS, NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
Contract Projection: Four years, $64 million ($16M per year); $40 million total guaranteed
After every big-name wide receiver in the 2019 NFL Draft class who was set to hit free agency this offseason signed monster extensions before the year began, Meyers found himself as the top free agent at a position that is growing in importance (and value) every single week. Meyers was an undrafted free agent find of the Patriots in 2019 who has blossomed into a very good player, returning to New England in 2022 on a restricted free agent tender and comfortably outperforming all the other major investments the team made at the position over the past two offseasons.
New England may certainly try to keep Meyers around, likely letting Nelson Agholor reach free agency at the least, but they’ve also made it a habit of letting players walk after their rookie contract value is gone, notably with another former undrafted free agent in cornerback J.C. Jackson last offseason.
Meyers is predominantly a slot receiver but is certainly not just that, logging a little more than one-third of his snaps out wide. What he lacks in physical tools — his 4.63-second 40-yard dash ranks in the 14th percentile among wide receivers in PFF’s database — he more than makes up for with sharp route running and great hands. Over the past three seasons, his 3.1% drop rate ranks ninth among qualifying wide receivers, and at 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds, he can use his frame to make contested catches. His 63.2% contested catch rate is a top-five mark among all wide receivers over the same span.

35. WR JUJU SMITH-SCHUSTER, KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Contract Projection: Three years, $36 million ($12M per year); $24.5 million total guaranteed
Smith-Schuster signed an incentive-laden, one-year deal for 2022 that paid him close to nothing in base value but included a ton of upside that he took major advantage of down the stretch. Smith-Schuster earned an additional $1.5 million with his 78 receptions, another $1.5 million with his 933 receiving yards and another $1.5 million for playing more than 65% of offensive snaps. His $3.25 million base value deal is already at $7.75 million with room for $2 million more if he’s a full participant in the AFC championship game and Super Bowl.
Entering his seventh NFL season, Smith-Schuster will still be just 26 years old for the majority of the 2023 campaign. He’s tough over the middle of the field and takes a handful of big shots each season, which is certainly not ideal but never causes him to hear footsteps and alligator-arm tough catches with a defender bearing down on him. While he’s likely not going to get a huge multi-year deal, he could be the primary benefactor of a very weak free-agent class at wide receiver, representing one of the better options with a high floor.

38. WR ODELL BECKHAM JR., NO TEAM
Contract Projection: Three years, $33 million ($11M per year); $21.5 million total guaranteed
Beckham flirted with a return during the 2022 season as he recovered from his second torn ACL, but he ultimately decided to take the year off and get ready for the 2023 offseason, which could prove to be a wise decision. Beckham has expressed that he wants a multi-year deal so he can plant roots somewhere, which makes this projection very difficult because it creates such a wide range of possibilities.
Beckham’s postseason run with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021 was epic, even despite the fact he missed the second half of the Super Bowl, with his 84.7 receiving grade through the playoffs ranking fourth among wide receivers. Beckham’s four contested catches were tied for the most of any wide receiver, and his eight explosive receptions were tied for third most. When healthy, Beckham can still be one of the best separators at the position with his trademark elite skills at the catch point.

39. WR MICHAEL THOMAS, NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Contract Projection: One year, $12.5 million; $10 million total guaranteed (if released by the Saints)
Thomas has missed a ton of time over the past few seasons, but he showed over very limited action in 2022 that he can still be a top pass catcher. With how weak the wide receiver free-agent class is, Thomas may be worth the gamble.
Even in another injury-shortened 2022 campaign, Thomas flashed his elite ability. His 77.4 receiving grade ranked 12th among wide receivers, his three touchdown receptions tied for second and his eight contested catches were the most in the NFL through the first three weeks.

55. WR D.J. CHARK JR., DETROIT LIONS
Contract Projection: Three years, $35 million ($11.66M per year); $23.5 million total guaranteed
Chark signed a one-year, $10 million flier last offseason and unfortunately missed Weeks 4-11 due to injury, but he finished the year quite strong as the Lions turned their season around down the stretch.
From Week 12 through the end of the season, Chark earned a 72.5 receiving grade with three outings of 90-plus receiving yards over six games, 11 explosive receptions (tied for 13th) and an average of 17.6 yards per reception (11th). That’s Chark’s game, a field-stretcher with a 6-foot-4 frame and a 4.34 40-yard dash. He will always be near the top of the league in average depth of target and yards per reception, and there is always a market for those services.


62. WR ALLEN LAZARD, GREEN BAY PACKERS
Contract Projection: Three years, $33 million ($11M per year); $21.5 million total guaranteed
Lazard is a major beneficiary of a weak free-agent group at wide receiver, but his unique skill set makes him stand out in his own right. Lazard is built like a modern-day tight end, with his 6-foot-5, 227-pound frame helping him earn a 78.2 run-blocking grade from 2019-21, which ranked seventh among wide receivers.
Lazard has proven he’s more than just a blocker, setting new career highs in targets (98), receptions (60) and receiving yards (788) in 2022, with his 73.9 receiving grade a new top mark despite the increase in receiving volume stepping up as the No. 1 receiver in Davante Adams’ absence.

82. WR PARRIS CAMPBELL, INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
Contract Projection: Three years, $23.25 million ($7.75M per year); $13.25 million total guaranteed
Campbell was finally able to stay healthy over a full season, and it wasn’t just his availability that should inspire confidence going forward but also his consistent production over the year. The Ohio State product recorded at least 40 receiving yards in nine games and dropped just three of his 85 targets.
The former second-rounder hauled in 74.1% of his targets in 2022, a top-20 mark among wide receivers, winning downfield on occasion in addition to working underneath as the slot option.
While he was largely confined to the slot following the arrival of Alec Pierce in 2022, the Colts moved him around in years past, so a new team shouldn’t just pigeonhole him to the inside. Injuries may ultimately scare teams away, and a one-year flier may be more realistic than a multi-year projection, but Campbell could be a good low-risk bet if given a fresh start.

https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-2023-free-agent-rankings-free-agency

The WR free agent market is really poor this year. I'd rather we use the draft to acquire a WR or two. I don't think any of the free agents are what we would call "dependable" or significant upgrades. Lazard might be the guy, but he's probably going to get overpaid because the rest of the class is so weak.

I like the idea of Michael Thomas on a one year deal.

He would be a good compliment to Cooper DPJ. Veteran guy who knows how to get open and catch the ball.

Because of his recent injuries, his age, and his contract. More than likely this will be a negotiation. The question becomes does he want out?

The Saints are interested in Carr. If that happens will Thomas want to stay?

Man, three straight years where he has played only a few games makes him really scary, especially w/the amount of money he will want. Great receiver when he was healthy, but 3 years worth of injuries is a lot.

Chark is interesting.

We just drafted Bell and Woods. The lower the draft round the probability of real contribution in a rookie season becomes less and less likely.

Chark is a field stretcher with speed and length.

Yeah, Chark has a lot of the measurables that you want in a WR. However, he is another guy who can't seem to stay healthy.

I didn't post my opinion about the salary cap.

Top Rated FA DE's and projected costs:

20. EDGE MARCUS DAVENPORT, NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Contract Projection: One year, $12 million; $10 million total guaranteed

30. EDGE JADEVEON CLOWNEY, CLEVELAND BROWNS
Contract Projection: One year, $8 million; $7 million total guaranteed

34. EDGE CHARLES OMENIHU, SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
Contract Projection: Two years, $17.5 million ($8.75M per year); $11.5 million total guaranteed

48. EDGE ARDEN KEY, JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
Contract Projection: Two years, $18.5 million ($9.25M per year); $11.5 million total guaranteed

50. EDGE SAMSON EBUKAM, SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
Contract Projection: Three years, $30.75 million ($10.25M per year); $20 million total guaranteed

54. EDGE OGBONNIA OKORONKWO, HOUSTON TEXANS
Contract Projection: Two years, $11 million ($5.5M per year); $6.75 million total guaranteed

59. EDGE YANNICK NGAKOUE, INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
Contract Projection: Two years, $25 million ($12.5M per year); $20 million total guaranteed

65. EDGE BRANDON GRAHAM, PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
Contract Projection: One year, $4.5 million; $4.25 million total guaranteed

ne year, $4 million; $3.5 million total guaranteed

68. EDGE JUSTIN HOUSTON, BALTIMORE RAVENS
Contract Projection: One year, $4 million; $3.5 million total guaranteed

70. EDGE KYLE VAN NOY, LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Contract Projection: Two years, $6.5 million ($3.25M per year); $4 million total guaranteed

85. EDGE RASHEEM GREEN, HOUSTON TEXANS
Contract Projection: Two years, $10 million ($5M per year); $6.25 million total guaranteed

99. EDGE LORENZO CARTER, ATLANTA FALCONS
Contract Projection: Two years, $12 million ($6M per year); $6.75 million total guaranteed

100. EDGE DAWUANE SMOOT, JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
Contract Projection: One year, $1.5 million; $500,000 total guaranteed

https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-2023-free-agent-rankings-free-agency

While that sounds great in theory this isn't rated a very strong draft at the WR position and the Browns don't even have a pick until the mid second round. I'm not sure that will provide viable options in finding a pick at WR that presents value or an immediate answer at the position.

I know it's early in the process and draft rankings will change, but in looking at PFF's draft grades at the current time in terms of WR's I just don't see much in the way of quality after the first five WR's they have ranked.

https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-top-10-wide-receiver-rankings

Omenihu and Houston are the two guys I'm most interested to be part of the rotation w/Wright and Thomas. They won't cost too much and both had pretty damn good years.

Yeah, this is a weaker WR class. Especially compared to the last couple of years. However, we will be picking later, so we wouldn't have a chance at a top guy anyway. We might find a guy or two in rounds 2-4.

"Early in the process."

The names jump all over the place from now till the end of April.

I have never put much into the Combine but it clarifies physical dimensions and health. It plays a part in evaluation.

Workouts and visits verifies tape.

The mocks are decent gauges.

When you have a pick in the first. You can kinda figure where players in the first may go. After the first it becomes like playing darts in the dark.

j/c

Someone who I've been looking at as a possibility as an interior DL is a guy who has been playing for the Rams, Greg Gaines. He just completed the last year of his rookie deal. He's not a world beater but has done well against the run while getting pressure on the QB and some sacks in the process. What I see as a pretty good upgrade that may be able to be signed to a reasonable deal.

Gaines is a pretty good player. I've liked what I have seen from him. I didn't realize he was a free agent.

You said it all. It was almost exactly what I was going to say.

I don't know him.

I lack knowledge of players on other teams. When a name comes up. I have to research them. Some players I may be familiar with.

When free agency and the draft is over and the roster is pretty set. That is when I really look at the players on the team.

This year represents change.

Before the season end review from Stefanski and Berry. Woods was fired. Clearly the defense was recognized as a problem.

Jim Schwartz will get to have input on defensive player evaluation. Berry will want to listen to what Schwartz feels about free agent players and possible draft targets.

Free agency will set the table for the draft.

What the final roster will look like is a mystery to me.

I certainly won't say I keep up with all of the players. I mean that would almost be a full time job in itself. But I will say that I watch a lot of NFL games. I love the sport! And I do usually tend to concentrate on the positions I know the Browns need or feel they may need. DT was on the top of the list during this season so that's most likely the only reason I watched this player as well as many others at the same position.

And what a lot of fans do, not naming you per say, is to focus on the big name, super high production FA names. As if one star player will fix everything at the DT or DE positions. I don't think many fans on this board feel that way. I believe most of us understand that the DL is a rotation that requires serviceable and above serviceable players not only as starters but also at depth. Not all of them can be paid top dollar. Not all of them will be household names. As it stands I believe Gaines would be a starter on the interior of the Browns DL.

This video won't show because it has NFL content. But if you click on where the video is underlined and says "watch on youtube" you can see it.

Impressive.

Really shows quickness. Looks a lot better than what we were rolling out there.

Good video. I noticed him making plays last year. Some say he benefits from playing beside Donald and that may be true, but he has a nice combination of speed and power.

I looked up his PFF numbers from this year.

Pass Rush: 59.3
Run D: 57.5
Overall: 59.1

That's disappointing, but I still think he could help us.

Yeah all highlight tapes are designed to show their strengths and tend to hide their weaknesses. I try to keep that in mind when watching all of them. Especially as the draft approaches. It's certainly not a balanced presentation of a players strengths and liabilities. Sadly I believe he could be a starter for the Browns at this point in time. Hopefully by the start of next season he would be solid roster depth in the rotation.