The future for Cleveland Browns defensive end Olivier Vernon was extremely uncertain immediately following the 2019 season due to his team-leading cap hit for 2020. Making $15.5 million in 2020, it was not expected the Browns new front office would want to pay that salary if Vernon was not providing equal production for the deal.
In his first season with the Browns in 2019, Vernon made 26 total tackles, four tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and one forced fumble in 10 games. Due to being traded to the Browns last offseason, Vernon's salary is not guaranteed for 2020, meaning the Browns could shed Vernon's $15.