The Cleveland Browns currently plan to move second-year cornerback Greg Newsome II to the inside in three and four-receiver sets this year. After trading Troy Hill back to the Los Angeles Rams, after a poor season in Cleveland, the Browns options at slot corner are limited.
M.J. Stewart helped in the slot last season as well but moved on to the Houston Texans in free agency this year. Rookie third-round pick Martin (MJ) Emerson could also be a factor in the slot but most see him playing on the outside more.
One top-level slot cornerback is still out on the open market for Cleveland to sign. Chris Harris Jr. played the last two seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers after nine stellar years in Denver. According to Touchdown Wire, Harris was the 12th best slot defender, not just corner, in the NFL last year:
Harris is currently a free agent, and it would be wise for some team to make him an offer to be their veteran slot presence. He proved in 2021 that he’s still got it in the right system.
The Browns have enough cap space and a void that Harris could fill along with his great veteran savvy. With high hopes going into the season, adding Harris could be a big addition this late in the offseason.