The Cleveland Browns made the biggest splash in free agency so far since the signing period began, bringing in a number of players on defense, including Paul Kruger, Quentin Groves and Desmond Bryant, proving that new owner Jimmy Haslam is ready to spend his money.
According to ESPN.com, the team signed Groves to a two-year, $2.8 million contract, while Kruger was signed for five-years and $40.5 million with $21 million guaranteed. The team also brought in Bryant after a great year with the Raiders, signing him to a deal with $15 million in guaranteed after he made 48 tackles last season
The Browns had one of the lowest rated defenses in the league, which is one reason why general manager Michael Lombardi targeted these players. The team likely isn't finished yet either, as they entered free agency with nearly $50 million in cap space following last season. The team is changing defensive schemes from a 4-3 to a 3-4 and both Groves and Kruger should transition nicely.
Bryant should also bring a new element to the team when it comes to rush defense, as they allowed nearly 120 yards per game last season. The Browns could go after more defensive players, but it might be time to upgrade on offense, as the team was one of the lowest scoring squads in the NFL.
Last year the team went just 5-11 and ranked 19th and 24th in passing and rushing yards per game behind rookies Brandon Weeden and Trent Richardson. The team could benefit from some veteran depth and two options could be Green Bay Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings and Oakland Raiders tight end Brandon Myers.
The team could use upgrades at both positions after Josh Gordon led the team with 50 catches and Jennings could provide a security blanket for Brandon Weeden as he enters his second season. Myers could also be a good addition, as he proved during a breakout season last year that he can catch the ball and be an effective blocker.
Carson Palmer completed over 70 percent of his passes when thrown at Myers and the tight end led the Raiders with 79 catches, 806 yards and 4 touchdowns, which would be a huge step up over departing tight end Benjamin Watson. Welker is currently in serious talks with the Broncos and although it is likely he will re-sign with the Patriots, the Browns could surprise.
Lombardi is a good evaluator of talent and he could see Jennings being a possession type for Brandon Weeden to use to move the chains down the field. Jennings was injured for part of last season, but after Wes Welker signed a two-year, $12 million deal with the Broncos, Jennings could be in the range for the Browns.
Jennings could be a threat in the slot and down the field for Weeden in the same way that he was for Aaron Rodgers. The team also has needs at cornerback and could go after Aqib Talib, Brent Grimes or Quentin Jammer.
