The Cleveland Browns have made it a point to improve the defense in the offseason.
The first big move was signing safety John Johnson III and it earned rave reviews.
New Browns S John Johnson is viewed as one of the smartest, instinctive safeties in the league. On top of his physical skill set, he’ll immediately bring leadership, reliability and impact plays.
Huge get for Cleveland.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) March 15, 2021
One note on John Johnson III that isn't in a contract detail or bottom line ticker…was often the Rams' face and voice in the community. Beloved member of that franchise for years. Made biggest INT in franchise history, too.
Great culture addition by Cleveland, on top of ball.
— Peter Schrager (@PSchrags) March 15, 2021
Johnson will give defensive coordinator Joe Woods versatility along with having Ronnie Harrison and Grant Delpit returning from injury.
Many were expecting Andrew Berry to add a star defensive end to play opposite Myles Garrett, but so far he has signed DE Takk McKinley.
McKinley is best suited as a No. 3 option and should fill the void left by the release of Adrian Clayborn.
So, will the Browns be signing anyone else?
According to Josina Anderson, the Browns are still in the market for a CB and DT while they wait for the market to cool off.
From what I hear, #Browns are still monitoring the market at CB and DL, even as some prospects come off the big board. May let the market cool off just a little.
— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) March 16, 2021
Currently, there are still some notable names still on the market.
Top Free Agents still available… pic.twitter.com/UdYhN8K9mi
— NFL UK & Ireland (@NFLUKIRE) March 16, 2021
Among the best defensive backs still available include William Jackson, Richard Sherman, and Desmond King II.
Jackson was the Bengals’ first-round pick in 2016.
Spotrac has projected Jackson’s value at 3 years and 18.9 million.
Free-agent cornerbacks expected to cash in this week include Cincinnati's William Jackson and Seattle's Shaquill Griffin, who has already made a Pro Bowl and is still only 25. @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/bRwYOb8DKg
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 14, 2021
Richard Sherman could still be an option as well with his connection to Joe Woods.
Sherman can still be a high-level player with his experience and intelligence.
A short-term deal like 2 years and $28 million could make sense for the Browns.
According to PFF, Desmond King II is one of the highest-rated slot corners in football.
Chargers are shopping former All-Pro defensive back and punt returner Desmond King II, per @AdamSchefter
King II: Highest-graded slot CB since 2017 – 91.2 pic.twitter.com/fMjLsjY4tM
— PFF (@PFF) November 2, 2020
PFF is also projecting King at a 3-year contract worth $17.5, which is only 5.83 million per year.
NEXT: Browns Sign Free Agent Edge Rusher Takk McKinley
