While the Cleveland Browns revamped their defense this offseason, it wasn’t enough to stop the Kansas City Chiefs. Then again, it is really hard to stop the Chiefs with the mistakes made by the offense and special teams. Even a near-perfect game could have been good enough to get the victory in Week 1.
With Week 2 looming, the team continues to look for upgrades to the defense. Today that included bringing in a former first-round pick at the linebacker spot. With Anthony Walker and Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah joining that position group, many are surprised the team would look to add another player.
In Reuben Foster, the Browns worked out a talented player but far from just “another player.” First, the initial report on the Foster workout:
The #Browns are working out Reuben Foster tomorrow, I’m told
— Kimberley A. Martin (@ByKimberleyA) September 16, 2021
Second, it is important to note what has led Foster to be out of the NFL for some time. Foster has had numerous legal issues including two charges of domestic violence (later dismissed) and charges related to a weapon and marijuana possession. The NFL suspended him for two games under the substance abuse policy.
Foster was waived by the San Fransisco 49ers in 2018 but claimed by the Washington Football Team. The linebacker then tore his ACL, among other injuries, for Washington in 2019.
Third, since being drafted in 2017, Foster has only played in 16 games, ten as a rookie and then six before being waived in 2018. He compiled 101 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, seven quarterback hits and two pass deflections during that time.
After the success of Malik McDowell, who had a similarly troubled past and injury concerns, and extending the contract of Kareem Hunt, general manager Andrew Berry has shown a willingness to take low-cost risks if he feels the player has changed his ways.
Foster has mostly stayed out of the spotlight over the past few years but started working out for NFL teams recently. It is possible that Cleveland looks to sign him after the workout or could wait until after Week 2 concludes, if interested, while Foster could continue his workout rounds around the league.