The Cleveland Browns are garnering praise for their smart and effective NFL free agency moves despite refraining from being big spenders.
This was evidenced by a significant leap in The Analyst’s team rankings, jumping ten spots from 32nd to 22nd. This substantial improvement reflects positive changes across several key positional units. A foundational move was securing star pass rusher Myles Garrett with a record-setting four-year extension. This ensured their defensive anchor remains in Cleveland.
Beyond this, the Browns strategically added depth and talent: veteran offensive tackle Cornelius Lucas for offensive line stability, edge rusher Joe Tryon-Shoyinka for a jolt of athleticism in the pass rush rotation, and defensive tackle Maliek Collins to man the interior defensive line. Versatile WR/Returner DeAndre Cater adds special teams and receiving value, while offensive lineman Teven Jenkins brings quality depth and flexibility. The re-signing of linebacker Devin Bush provides familiar depth for a room that may be without Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah for 2025.
The last move to note was the acquisition of quarterback Kenny Pickett, a young, experienced player to an otherwise decrepit quarterback room.
While free agency success is most accurately measured when the pads come on in the fall, the Browns’ approach thus far this spring has improved their roster on paper. The upcoming draft offers another chance to build on this momentum. For now, the Browns have generated significant positive buzz and optimism heading into the next phase of the offseason.