The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for pivotal moves post-NFL Draft, a period marked by crucial decisions for franchises league-wide. Amid this high-stakes backdrop, Cleveland’s strategy concerning its defensive lineup is coming into sharp focus.
Among the key developments, the decision to exercise the fifth-year option on cornerback Greg Newsome stands out as a testament to the team’s confidence in his evolving role within the squad.
The Cleveland Browns’ Calculated Gamble
Despite the absence of Day One draft picks over the past three years—a consequence of strategic trades and acquisitions—the Cleveland Browns are not standing idle. The spotlight falls on Greg Newsome, a 23-year-old cornerback whose performance has caught the eye of team decision-makers.
According to Mary Kay Cabot of cleveland.com, the Browns are expected to solidify their commitment to Newsome by picking up his option for 2025, a move that will secure his services for $13.38M.
Greg Newsome’s Ascendant Path
Re ranking the Cleveland Browns Top 10 plays from 2023 Season Pt 1 pic.twitter.com/jB9rssi4UY
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Without a Pro Bowl nod to his name, Greg Newsome’s contribution might fly under the radar for the casual observer. Yet, his consistent presence on the field speaks volumes. Achieving a snap share of no less than 86% in each of his three seasons, Newsome has proven to be an indispensable element of the Browns’ defense.
His versatility is highlighted by his ability to adapt between playing on the outside and slot positions, a flexibility that became even more crucial following defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz’s tactics to utilize fellow starters Denzel Ward and Martin Emerson in varied roles.
2023 marked a year of personal bests for Newsome, notching his first career interception and a record 14 pass deflections. His coverage statistics—56.7% completion percentage allowed and a 74.8 passer rating when targeted—underscore a performance that aligns with his best season to date, reflected in a solid PFF grade of 69.6.
At 23, Greg Newsome’s statistical achievements argue strongly for his retention, painting him as a defensive asset the Browns would be keen to secure.
Cleveland Browns, Greg Newsome Deal Raises Concerns
The decision to exercise Newsome’s fifth-year option is not devoid of financial implications. With Denzel Ward already on a hefty $20.1M-per-year contract and Martin Emerson poised for an extension, the Browns face a balancing act. The trio of cornerback talents presents a formidable defense but comes at a significant cost, compounded by the salary cap implications of Deshaun Watson’s contract.
Moreover, the acquisition of Watson, which stripped the Cleveland Browns of their first-round picks through to 2024, emphasizes the need for strategic financial planning. The team’s maneuverability in securing key players under contract constraints will be crucial for its competitive outlook.
Cleveland Browns Commit to Defense, Retain Greg Newsome
As the May 2 deadline looms for fifth-year option decisions, the Cleveland Browns’ intent to retain Newsome signals a commitment to defensive prowess as a cornerstone of their strategy. His progression and versatility underscore a player coming into his own at a critical juncture for the team.
While financial hurdles exist, Cleveland’s move to exercise Newsome’s option underlines a broader strategy of prioritizing core defensive talent in pursuit of success.
In the grand chessboard of NFL team management, the Cleveland Browns are making calculated moves to position themselves as contenders. As they navigate the complexities of contract negotiations and salary cap management, the decision on Greg Newsome represents both a vote of confidence in his abilities and a strategic bet on the team’s defensive future.
Sources: Yardbarker
