Browns Free Agency Rumors Link Team to Reunion With Key Defender

Free agency rumors have linked the Cleveland Browns to a reunion with defensive end Jadeveon Clowney.
Free agency rumors have linked the Cleveland Browns to a reunion with defensive end Jadeveon Clowney. / Jeff Lange / USA TODAY NETWORK
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Not a lot went right for the Cleveland Browns during the 2022 NFL season, but their ability to get to the opposing quarterback was among the best in the league. It looks like a key piece of those efforts could be coming back, as Cleveland appears to be in the running to re-sign Jadeveon Clowney.

Cleveland Browns Free Agency

ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler reports that the Browns "remain optimistic" when it comes to the idea of bringing Clowney back. While no deal has been competed yet, this is still great news for Cleveland fans. Having a standout DE to pair with All-Pro Myles Garrett takes this defense to another level.

It's worth noting that Clowney enjoyed a major bounce back season with the Browns in 2021. The 29-year-old posted 37 tackles (11.0 for loss), 19 quarterback hits, 2 pass breakups and 2 forced fumbles across 14 games played. His 9.0 sacks also ranked second on the team behind only Garrett.

Clowney has a built a reputation for waiting through much of the offseason before signing a contract, so it could be a while until he decides what to do. And the Browns have the money to offer a sizable short-term deal, with nearly $27 million in available cap space.

Nevertheless, the Browns' free agent options at DE are quickly dwindling with the likes of Melvin Ingram and Jerry Hughes both signing elsewhere. 2022 third-round pick Alex Wright and offseason trade acquisition Chase Winovch are expected to take snaps opposite Garrett if no move is made.

The Browns remain the co-favorite to win the AFC North with odds set at +200, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

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Larry Rupp is not a FanDuel employee. In addition to providing DFS gameplay advice, Larry Rupp also participates in DFS contests on FanDuel using his personal account, username phillyfan424. While the strategies and player selections recommended in his articles are his personal views, he may deploy different strategies and player selections when entering contests with his personal account. The views expressed in their articles are the author's alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of FanDuel.