In part one, we looked at the strongest candidates to start at linebacker for the Cleveland Browns.
In part two, we dive into the remaining linebackers that will compete for a roster spot.
As a twist, we added our view on their chance of making the final roster.
Tae Davis
- Height: 6-1
- Weight: 224
- Age: 23
- Experience: 3 years
- College: Chattanooga
Davis came into the league after being picked up by the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent in 2018.
As a rookie, Davis logged 30 tackles in 40 games.
In 2019, the Browns signed him and played him exclusively on special teams, where he finished with four tackles and two assists.
Davis finished the season with a grade of 26.9 according to Pro Football Focus.
That’s what I like to see out of my guy Tae Davis! Nice speed rush into the ribs! pic.twitter.com/5Dj0blyqOq
— Bobby Skinner (@BobbySkinner_) August 22, 2019
The fact that Davis played for the Browns last season on special teams gives him a leg up.
Davis also has experience as a strong safety.
Final Roster Odds: 50%
Jermaine Grace
- Height: 6-1
- Weight: 223
- Age: 26
- Experience: 4 years
- Miami
Grace started off his career in 2017 as an undrafted free agent with the Atlanta Falcons.
In 2018, the Browns claimed him during the offseason.
After that, Grace tried to earn a spot on the team in training camp, but didn’t make the cut.
Grace returned to the Falcons and played in 12 games as a reserve, where he registered a grade of 31.2 according to PFF.
Jumped the route!@AtlantaFalcons LB Jermaine Grace intercepts Josh Rosen‘s pass. #ATLvsMIA pic.twitter.com/iqm11JfrhN
— NFL (@NFL) August 9, 2019
Grace was waived at the end of November, spent 12 days with the Seattle Seahawks, and then rejoined the Browns.
He finished last season with six tackles.
Grace’s saving grace, no pun intended, is that he has shown potential in coverage, but his history has shown he has not made the elevation from practice squad player.
He will be a candidate to compete for a spot on special teams.
Final Roster Odds: 20%
Willie Harvey
- Height: 5-11
- Weight: 230 pounds
- Age: 24
- Experience: 2 years
- College: Iowa State
Harvey was promoted to the 90-man roster due to a linebacker injury.
He originally tried out at rookie minicamp in 2019 and missed out on the final roster.
Harvey’s preseason, eight tackles and two assists impressed coaches, but he finished the regular season playing in just one game, where he registered one assist on special teams.
Willie Harvey tips pass to secure Browns’ victory
#Browns vs #Colts pic.twitter.com/72KLVg6oVs— Browns Replay (@BrownsReplay) August 17, 2019
Harvey was the back of the end guy on the roster, which hurts his chances of staying on the roster.
The Browns drafted Jordan Phillips in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft and he is a lock for the final roster.
Harvey not so much.
Final Roster Odds: 15%
Montrel Meander
- Height: 6-2
- Weight: 215 pounds
- Age: 25
- Experience: 1 year
- College: Grambling State
If the name Montrel Meander feels familiar, that is because it is.
Meander is a former undrafted free agent by the Browns in 2018, but was signed as a safety.
He didn’t make the final cut, spent most of the year on the practice squad, and was picked up by the former Oakland Raiders.
Last offseason, Meander spent time with the Jets, but was claimed by the Browns before settling back on the practice squad.
In college, Meander spent time as a wide receiver and defensive back, but now he is listed as a linebacker.
@BryanBroaddus what do think about this player as a third day pick or free agent? Montrel Meander | Official Grambling St. highlights https://t.co/7Ia2J2OZ56 via @YouTube
— Alcee Tavarez (@Bluediablo3) March 23, 2018
At the NFL Combine, Meander drew attention after he ran a 4.4-second, 40-yard dash.
Despite all the change at his position, there should not be too much shuffling when it comes to surviving the final roster cut.
Final Roster Odds: 8%
Solomon Ajayi
- Height: 6-0
- Weight: 222 pounds
- Age: 23
- Experience: Rookie
- College: Liberty
Ajayi’s chances of making the final roster are very unlikely, but he does provide a new face.
The Browns signed Ajayi as an undrafted free agent after this year’s draft.
Ajayi is the younger brother of former Eagles and Dolphins running back Jay Ajayi.
PICK SIX
Solomon Ajayi with the interception and takes it to the house! Flames lead NM State 17-0. #ThisIsLiberty #RiseWithUs pic.twitter.com/F5e4BLAw1L
— Liberty Football (@LibertyFootball) November 24, 2018
When it comes to football, Ajayi led the team in tackles as a junior but was cited as a player that “did not pop out” against non-FCS opponents.
It will be an uphill battle to make the final roster.
Final Roster Odds: 7%
NEXT: Myles Garrett Ranked 80th In NFL's Top 100 List For 2020
