3 Best Offseason Moves From the Cleveland Browns

For nearly two decades, the Cleveland Browns have been the punchline to a lot of peoples jokes around the NFL. However, that changed last season when the Browns finished the 2020 season with an 11-5 record. As a result, they made the playoffs for the first time since 2002. Unfortunately, their run ended with a 22-17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Divisional Playoffs.

The Browns will look to build on that success in 2021 and have already started to do so with their offseason moves.

Here's a look at their 3 best moves offseason moves so far.

3. Re-signing Rashard Higgins

Re-signing Rashard Higgins was a great move for the Browns. / Nic Antaya/Getty Images

When you think of wide receivers on the Browns, it's easy to automatically think of Odell Beckham Jr. or Jarvis Landry. However, it's important not to ignore Rashard Higgins' impact on the team. When the team's top two receivers are covered, Higgins is a legitimate third option. In 13 games last season, he had 37 receptions for 599 yards and 4 touchdowns. He also had a 71.2 catch percentage.

2. Takkarist McKinley

Takkarist McKinley was a great signing for the Browns. / Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Outside of Myles Garrett, the Browns didn't have other edge-rushing threats until they signed Takkarist McKinley to a one-year deal. Injuries and failed physicals held McKinley to just 4 games last season. However, his past has shown that he can be an impactful player. McKinley had 13.0 sacks in his first two seasons and has 45 quarterback hits in his career. If he can stay healthy, he can be the perfect player to complement Garrett.

1. John Johnson III

John Johnson III was the perfect signing for the Browns defense. / Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images

The Browns' secondary was lacking before free agency, but signing John Johnson III to a three-year, $33.75 million contract certainly helps. Johnson helped make the Los Angeles Rams' secondary one of the top units in the league last season. His Pro Football Focus overall grade was 85.3 in 2020, which was better than every Browns defender except for Garrett. Even though Cleveland showed a big commitment to Johnson, it'll be well worth it if he plays as expected.

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