The Cleveland Browns signed another of the team’s draft picks to a 4-year deal.
The Browns signed offensive tackle (and native Ohioan) James Hudson selected in the fourth round with the 110th pick overall.
.@Cinco_Cinco3 makes it official!
We've signed T James Hudson III
📰 » https://t.co/ubIiY9Lu3O pic.twitter.com/Wgh3wZclfk
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) May 18, 2021
Hudson was thrilled to be drafted by the Browns earlier in the month because he would be close to home.
“It means everything. It warms my heart to know that I am only going to be an hour and a half away from home. My family is going to be able to come see me whenever they want to. That is a blessing. I am excited to put on for the state of Ohio.”
The Contract
His contract is a 4-year rookie deal worth $4.3 million which includes a $792K signing bonus.
Hudson is the latest draft pick to sign his rookie deal.
Four of the eight draft picks have been signed.
In addition to Hudson, Tony Fields, Richard LeCounte, and Demetric Felton have signed with the team.
What Hudson Brings
Hudson is a versatile player.
He has experience on both the offensive and defensive lines.
Hudson started his collegiate career at Michigan where he played defense in 2018.
He transferred to Cincinnati in 2019 but had to sit out the season because of transfer rules.
Hudson started in all 11 games at Cincinnati in 2020 at left tackle and was selected to the first team All-American Athletic Conference.
Browns 4th RD pick OT James Hudson at Cincinnati:
🔸 Pass-block snaps: 358
🔸 QB pressures allowed: 6
🔸 Sacks: 0 pic.twitter.com/z6rfjZ9Zim— PFF College (@PFF_College) May 1, 2021
Depth On The Offensive Tackle Roster
Jack Conklin will start at right tackle, and Jedrick Wills will return as the starting left tackle.
Beyond that, the Browns added Hudson and free agent Greg Senat (Dallas Cowboys) to the roster which already had Alex Taylor and Chris Hubbard.
Building depth has been a priority because injuries and COVID-19 depleted the Browns last season.
Hudson Fits The Offseason Theme
Andrew Berry has made it his business to select smart and versatile players in the 2021 offseason.
Hudson fits that mold perfectly as he can play in multiple positions if needed.
NEXT: Baker Mayfield Could Achieve Stunning Stat In Browns' 2021 Season
