Two new coordinators, 11 new players and six players retained from last season and yet somehow the Cleveland Browns did not have a “splashy” offseason. While some of their signings got decent-sized contracts and the trade for WR Elijah Moore was exciting, none really lead NFL free agency headlines.
Instead, GM Andrew Berry has seemed to have a very focused offseason. He may not be done, based on a recent Browns rumor/report, but Berry’s moves have filled specific needs:
- Juan Thornhill, Dalvin Tomlinson and Ogbonnia Okoronkwo give the team starters on defense that were required for new DC Jim Schwartz
- Ethan Pocic’s return was a bit of a surprise but an important one while Jordan Akins gives the team a second tight end, Marquise Goodwin gives the Browns a pure speed threat and Moore provides them a young, quick, fast receiver that can do a lot of things on offense
- Even new special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone saw additions that were specific for his part of the team
According to Terry Pluto, Cleveland’s NFL free agency was purposeful in that way:
Most were acquired for specific roles.