Cleveland Browns: 2016 Offseason

Ercolenose

Contributor
Hey there Browns' fans,

It's that time of the year again where expectations are high and so is Josh Gordon. Speaking of which, you will not be seeing him catch a pass or a fine while wearing a Browns' uniform. Gordon was among the players that were not renewed by the manager. Let's review some of the biggest moves in the offseason.

Free Agency

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In free agency, new owner Jimmy Hendrix made his opinion heard by coaches when acquiring Christine Michaels after the departure of Isaiah Crowell. Christine Michaels is expected to be a 30% recipient of the workload this season (50% Duke Johnson and 20% Paul Perkins). His trucking skills will be mainly used primarily in 3rd and short situations as well as runs down the middle. See his highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=baUZG_7C6Pc

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LG Jeff Linckebach was signed by the organization on the first day of free agency to replace all-talented Britionio (lost to trade with Texans). He will be starting at LG while the team develops the young rookies.

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Former Texan MLB Akeem Dent was added to the squad in order to add depth in the pass rush department.
 

Ercolenose

Contributor
Trades

The Browns used all 5 of the trade player cap newly allowed by the commissioner. Three players came via a megatrade with the Texans.

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FB Jay Prosch, MLB Brian Cushing, and WR Jaelen Strong were acquired by the Browns in exchange for LG Bitonio, MLB Kirksey, and a 2016 5th round pick.

FB Prosch was selected to aid a Brown run that is in desperate need of improvement. He has the skill to run for short, catch the dump ball, and even help out as a 2nd string TE if the position is greatly in need.

MLB Brian Cushing brings plenty of experience in the pass rush department. The Browns are looking to use their press CB and new rush game to produce turnovers.

WR Jaelen Strong did not come cheap but after losing Terelle Pryor and Josh Gordon, it was a need to fill. Jaelen brings talent by the truckload. He will be the #2 string WR next to Corey Coleman and Andrew Hawkins.

The last trade came in form of draft picks. The Browns' #1 (11th overall) was sent to the Chargers in exchange for their #1 and #2 pick (25th and 57th pick). This meant for the Browns to stick out another year without a talented QB but there are bigger needs at the moment.
 

Ercolenose

Contributor
2016 Draft

It was time for Cleveland to shine and the first step was to give the defense the depth they longed for. As for offense, they were in the process of developing the offensive line (especially after losing LG Bitonio).

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1st Round (25th Overall)- MLB Reuben Foster, Alabama
A balanced linebacker with huge hit power (93) and speed (81). Running Backs meet your maker. This guy is projected to be in the rotation as a rookie (similar to Myles Jack in Jacksonville).

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1st Round (29th Overall)- DT Malik McDowell, Michigan State
A great bull rusher that will unlock the Browns' shutdown Defense. Although his speed is not the best for a DT, his ability to power move (83) inside the offense and pursue (82) the running game will be unmatched in years to come. He will also be in rotation with Cushing, Davis, and Dent.

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2nd Round (44th Overall)- RE Charles Harris, Missouri
High motor Harris came cheap to the Browns. He and his superstar development will very soon create disruption all over the field. His finesse moves (83) and speed (80) have earned him a spot in the rotation. Although he will be a 2nd string at the position, do not be surprised if he start half way through the season.

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2nd Round (57th Overall)- C Pat Elflein, Ohio State
One of the two best centers in this draft, Eflein will start right away in order to help out the offensive line. His run block (82) and impact blocking (79) will allow for Patrick Lewis to better perform as the new right tackle.

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2nd Round (59th Overall)- LG Dorian Johnson, Pittsburgh
After the loss of Bitonio, the Browns wanted to start with a new project. Johnson brings good balance to the position. As his awareness improves, he will compete for the starting job.
 
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