So far, the Cleveland Browns have been busy in free agency.
The Browns have signed tight end Austin Hooper, right tackle Jack Conklin, backup QB Case Keenum, fullback Andy Janovich, linebacker B.J Goodson, and safety Karl Joseph.
It was widely speculated that the Browns would likely move on from Olivier Vernon as he is set to make over $15 million next season according to Spotrac.
However, at least “for now,” that doesn’t appear to be the case according to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.
The #Browns are not releasing Olivier Vernon. At least not right now. https://t.co/cj1Zoxncd5
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 18, 2020
Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reported earlier in the offseason that the Browns would “probably be looking to replace” Vernon.
Cabot noted the Browns were unlikely to pay him the $15.25 million due this season and that the Browns would either cut him or get him to take a pay cut.
The Browns acquired Vernon from the New York Giants last year as part of the blockbuster trade that seen offensive lineman Kevin Zeitler go to the Giants.
So far in Cleveland, Vernon’s time has been a disappointment.
He has played in only 10 games due to knee issues and has 26 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and one forced fumble.
The Browns still have some cap space flexibility, but $15 million is still a big chunk of change to spend on someone who doesn’t seem to be able to stay on the field.
But, a top edge rusher is something every team across the NFL covets.
If the Browns keep Vernon, they will be certainly looking for him to stay healthy and return to his 2018 form when he made the Pro Bowl.
In his final year with the Giants, Vernon had 21 QB hits.
That’s more than twice any other player and he missed 5 games.
