The Cleveland Browns recently hired new GM Andrew Berry and he did not waste anytime improving the roster.
The Browns immediately upgraded their offense on the first day of free agency – with the signings of TE Austin Hooper & OT Jack Conklin.
Former Falcons 2x Pro Bowl tight end Austin Hooper signed a four-year deal, worth $44 million – making him the highest paid TE in the NFL. Hooper has had a terrific start to his four-year year career; improving in production every season.
Despite playing in 13 games last year due to injury, Hooper still earned a Pro Bowl spot; recording 75 receptions for 787 yards and 6 touchdowns.
It will be intriguing to see if the Browns will move on from former first-round pick TE David Njoku. Njoku, has one-year remaining on his rookie contract and could possibly be traded. The Browns also could choose to retain Njoku and run a 2-TE set.
Former Tennessee Titans offensive right tackle Jack Conklin is a MASSIVE addition – signing to a three-year, $42 million deal. The Browns offensive line was one of the worst in football, and protecting Baker Mayfield has been the focal point this offseason to address.
Conklin, is just 25-years-old and is in the prime of his career. The Browns desperately needed help at both left and right tackle; and this for sure answers one of their issues.
Cleveland also added former Washington Redskins quarterback Case Keenum. Keenum, signed a three-year, $18 million deal with $10M guaranteed. Keenum will provide an insurance backup incase Mayfield gets hurt, but more importantly will be a great mentor for Baker.
The Browns had a tremendous start to free agency – will see if they continue to make smart decisions while they continue to improve their roster going further.
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