NFL free agency negotiating has officially kicked off and the Cleveland Browns were aggressive just like GM Andrew Berry promised he would.
Signings
Austin Hooper (four-years $44 million, $10.5 million guaranteed)
This move isn’t calling David Njoku to the mattresses, but it is pretty darn close. Hooper brings to the Browns a good mix of receiving ability, blocking, and familiarity with the zone blocking scheme. Each of Hooper’s first four seasons has seen his snaps, targets, receptions, and yards increase. At 25 years old, Hooper has an opportunity to continue developing and become the next great Shanahan-system receiving tight end.
Jack Conklin (three-years $42 million, $30 million guaranteed)
After tearing his ACL in January 2018, Conklin spent the first few weeks of 2019 getting his legs back underneath him after injuring his knee again. According to PFF, Conklin was a top-10 offensive tackle in 2019. As for the structure of this contract, the Browns frontloaded the contract with $20 million in guarantees, have an out after 2020 and have the flexibility to re-sign him if things go well. Being only 25 years old, Conklin will still have the opportunity for another big free agency contract.
Case Keenum (three-years $18 million, $10 million guaranteed)
Not everyone will like this signing, but I love it. One thing missing from the quarterback room in 2019 was a strong veteran role model for Baker Mayfield. In 2018 Mayfield had Tyrod Taylor to mentor him and now he has Keenum to turn to. But it isn’t just giving Mayfield a mentor. Keenum has been able to maximize his ability in the NFL. Keenum isn’t the biggest, fastest, and doesn’t have the strongest arm, but he is a leader and knows how the Stefanski offense works. Ultimately, Keenum landed in the perfect spot.
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Rough Projection of Remaining Cap Space: $14 million
With the additions of Conklin ($20M), Hooper ($11M), and Keenum ($6M) there isn’t a lot left for the Browns to do unless they start making other roster moves to free up additional space. That depends on the structure of the new contracts, too.