What do you think about David Njoku’s future with the Browns? @themerrier505 on twitter
The Browns tight end made headlines during the season for requesting a trade, despite Cleveland’s unwillingness to deal him. The decision proved to be the correct one for the Browns, as Njoku turned himself into a terrific run blocker, something he was not known for when he was drafted out of University of Miami. While Njoku’s trade wish most likely stems from a lack of targets, he showed his value as a versatile run blocker. Njouku is entering the final year of his contract, and it is expected the tight end to finish out his current deal with the Browns next season.
Which Browns tight end do you expect to have the biggest role in the passing game next season? @alecag1995 on twitter
The Browns tight end room is one of the strengths of their team, as they have three capable players at that position. Kevin Stefanski surely loves utilizing the tight end as weapon in both the run and pass game, as Austin Hooper, David Njouku and Harrison Bryant all showed flashes of brilliance this past season. Out of the three names listed, the safe bet would be Austin Hooper. However, expect Bryant to take a step in terms of production during his second year in the NFL. Bryant is a natural downfield threat, as he pushed Njouku for regular playing time this past season. If Bryant can keep the fumbles down, he should see an increase in both snaps and usage.
Do you think Cleveland has really become a free agent destination? @NickCleveland on twitter
The jury is still out on this one, as free agency has yet to begin. However, players would be naive to overlook what Kevin Stefanski is building in Cleveland. The NFL’s coach of the year has laid the foundation for something special in Cleveland, and NFL players are surely taking note. In the end, a lot of these free agency decisions will come down to how the player views that team’s chances of winning; or more specifically, their quarterback situation. For the first time in seemingly forever, the Browns are competent at that position. Not only that, but Cleveland has successfully overcome the “same old Browns” moniker, that has plagued the franchise’s spirit for two decades. While the Browns surely are not in the same situation as a Tampa Bay team that is coming off of a Super Bowl with Tom Brady, they still should remain an attractive destination for NFL free agents due to the program Kevin Stefanski is building.
Do you think the Browns have a shot at signing either Marcus Williams or Keanu Neal in free agency, considering their cap situation? The defensive backfield could use a good shot of talent. Jeff from Lakewood, Ohio.
The Browns defensive backfield certainly could use an upgrade or two, and the Browns would be smart to explore all possible options. Bringing in another safety would take pressure off of Grant Delpit to have to perform at a high level right away, as he is coming off of a missed season due to a ruptured achilles. Out of the two names listed, I believe that Williams would be a better fit for the Browns. He is only 24 years old, and the Saints will be hard pressed to keep him given their current salary cap situation. Another name to keep an eye on for the Browns; John Johnson. The Rams will also have difficulty retaining the free safety with their cap situation too. Plenty of talent for the Browns to pick from in the safety market this offseason.