Cleveland Browns Free Agency news: Analyzing NFL side's latest signings

Last year, the Cleveland Browns signed Deshaun Watson to a five-year, $230 million fully-guaranteed deal, which is an NFL record.

After his 12-game suspension during the 2022 season, Cleveland will be hoping any rust he had during the final five games of the season will be gone and they can make a big jump forward in 2023.

They have restructured their contract with quarterback Watson, freeing up $36 million in cap space in preparation for free agency. The team was initially over the salary cap, but with Watson's contract restructure, they now have more cap space to work with during the free agency negotiating window.

Cleveland Browns signings

Dalvin Tomlinson reacts after a tackle - NFC Wild Card Playoffs - New York Giants v Minnesota Vikings

Dalvin Tomlinson, a defensive tackle, signed a four-year, $57 million deal with the Browns, with $27.5 million guaranteed. Tomlinson was one of the top free-agent defensive tackles on the market, and his addition fills a critical need for Cleveland, whose run defense ranked among the worst in the league last season.

However, the franchise is taking a risk on Tomlinson, as he is 29 years old and missed four games last season.

Juan Thornhill (S) will move into the starting spot alongside Grant Delpit, filling a void left by the release of John Johnson III. Thornhill brings experience to the Cleveland defense, having started 52 games for the Kansas City Chiefs. However, the Browns are banking on Thornhill's ability to step up as a veteran starter, as they do not have another young option at safety.

Ogbonnia Okoronkwo (DE) signed a three-year deal, replacing outgoing defensive end Jadeveon Clowney. Okoronkwo had a solid season last year, ranking 13th in the league in pass rush win rate, but he only has 9.5 career sacks in four seasons. Cleveland need immediate production from the defensive end position and are taking a risk that Okoronkwo can deliver.

Ethan Pocic (C) signed a three-year deal with Cleveland, returning to anchor the interior of the offensive line. Pocic was one of the top centers in the NFL last season, but his return could stunt the development of 2020 fifth-round pick Nick Harris. However, the Browns are focused on winning now and believe that Pocic gives them the best chance to do so.

Sione Takitaki (LB) re-signed with Cleveland on a one-year deal worth just under $2.6 million. Takitaki provides depth at linebacker and has shown the ability to play competently in the middle of the defense, but he is coming off an ACL tear and may not be ready to go at the start of training camp.

Maurice Hurst (DT) signed with the Browns to bolster their defensive tackle rotation. Hurst has struggled to make an impact in recent seasons and battled injuries, but he brings experience and will help improve the team's run defense.

Trysten Hill (DT) signed a one-year deal with the Browns after being waived by the Dallas Cowboys in the middle of last season. Hill has battled injuries throughout his career and is yet to make a significant impact in the NFL, but Cleveland are hoping that he can provide depth on the defensive line.

Jordan Akins (TE) signed with the Browns after a productive season with the Houston Texans. Akins caught 37 passes for 495 yards and five touchdowns last season, and his familiarity with Watson should give the quarterback another reliable option. The addition of Akins could impact the role of backup tight end Harrison Bryant.

Notable Cleveland Browns departures

Kareem Hunt - Cleveland Browns v Baltimore Ravens

Last season's bridge starter Jacoby Brissett moved on to the Washington Commanders. He was arguably better than Watson as the starter last campaign, so this may be a large loss.

The defense has lost a lot of depth with the loss of "Greedy" Williams, Taven Bryan, Chase Winovich, Deion Jones, Jadaveon Clowney, and John Johnson. Former rushing champion Kareem Hunt has also moved on.