UNCERTAINTY PLAGUES CLEVELAND AS FREE AGENCY LOOMS
The Cleveland Browns find themselves in a familiar quandary, staring down another offseason without a clear-cut answer at the quarterback position. As the NFL free agency period approaches, speculation swirls around potential acquisitions, with veteran signal-caller Geno Smith emerging as a discussed, albeit imperfect, possibility. The team's offensive coordinator, Todd Monken, is reportedly considering various options, with Smith potentially fitting into the scheme if other targets like Shedeur Sanders or Deshaun Watson are not pursued.
The availability of experienced quarterbacks in the current free agency market is noted as being more substantial than in previous years. Geno Smith, recently released by the Las Vegas Raiders, is now on the open market. Reports also suggest that players like Mac Jones and Anthony Richardson could become available through trades, potentially complicating Smith's options. If Monken isn't convinced by his existing choices, the Browns might need to actively recruit Smith to Cleveland.
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Smith's past performance presents a mixed bag. Originally a second-round draft pick by the New York Jets, his early career was marred by the label of "bust." Last season, the Raiders acquired him via trade and offered a contract extension, but his tenure there ended abruptly, marked by leading the league with 17 interceptions. Despite this, some believe Monken, with his history of quarterback development, could help Smith rediscover his previous Pro Bowl form.
Offensive Line Focus
Beyond the quarterback discussion, the Browns are also addressing their offensive line. General Manager Andrew Berry has indicated a desire to overhaul the line, drawing a parallel to the Chicago Bears' recent efforts. This offseason has already seen movement, with Berry taking steps to improve the unit. One player mentioned, Paul, ranks highly in pass block win rate but less so in run block win rate, offering a style similar to tight end Harold Fannin Jr. rather than a traditional inline tight end.
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Previous Quarterback Carousel
The Browns' recent history at quarterback has been anything but stable. This past season alone saw a series of starters: Kenny Pickett, Joe Flacco, and rookie Dillon Gabriel. There was also the drafting of Shedeur Sanders. The team traded for Pickett, signed Flacco, and drafted Gabriel, reflecting a series of attempts to find stability. Sanders, younger than many other prospects, has also been a name in the mix. The possibility of another trade for Pickett or a pivot back to him has been mentioned, especially with the Raiders potentially bringing back Aidan O’Connell, which led to their deal for Pickett.
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Potential Trade Options
In addition to free agency, the Browns are reportedly exploring the trade market for quarterback solutions. The team enters this offseason without an established starter for the second year running. Discussions have included veteran options and younger prospects. Whether Berry believes a legitimate pathway exists to acquire a starting quarterback through trade remains to be determined.
Geno Smith's Track Record
Geno Smith's career arc has been inconsistent. He has demonstrated the ability to lead teams, including a stretch where the Packers went 2-1 in his starts. However, concerns persist about his ability to maintain consistent performance, particularly when healthy. His recent injury history, including a torn ACL for the third time, adds another layer of doubt regarding his long-term viability. Despite these challenges, Smith is expected to draw interest from multiple teams if he hits the open market. Other potential landing spots mentioned for Smith include the Arizona Cardinals, who have also seen quarterback changes, and potentially the Minnesota Vikings.