While the Cleveland Browns already have arguably the top edge rusher in football, with Myles Garrett constantly proving to be a problem for opponents, he needs more help. We’ve seen the Browns make one big move to try and improve after finishing with the fifth-fewest sacks a season ago by hiring Jim Schwartz to take over defensive coordinator duties.
But coaches coach and players play. No matter what schemes Schwartz can come up with, the Browns still need to put more talent on the field. Garrett led the team with 16 sacks. No other Browns player had more than three. Jadeveon Clowney has proven not to be the answer, and he’s headed for free agency anyway.
This is all just to say, expect general manager Andrew Berry to add at least one pass rusher to the roster this offseason. If so, they could look to add a familiar face to coach Schwartz’s unit.
Related: Cleveland Browns interested in All-Pro from division rival in free agency
Cleveland Browns looking into Brandon Graham signing
According to ESPN’s Tim McManus, the Browns could try and snag Super Bowl-winning defensive end Brandon Graham away from the Philadelphia Eagles. The soon-to-be 35-year-old has spent his entire 13-year career in Philly but is now set to be a free agent, and they have several roster decisions to make.
Graham may very well wish to play his entire career with the Eagles, but he may not have a choice. Not to mention, having Schwartz on the Browns’ staff, who spent five seasons coordinating Graham with the Eagles from 2016-20, including during their Super Bowl LII victory and during his lone Pro Bowl season.
- Brandon Graham stats last season: 35 tackles, 11 sacks, 2 FF, 1 PD – One start, 17 games
In other words, Graham could see the opportunity to pair back up with Schwartz, who helped maximize his skillset in the past, while being able to feast, knowing Garrett will constantly be drawing double-teams.
Related: Top NFL free agents of 2023: From 1-400, Derek Carr, Bobby Wagner join growing market