The Cleveland Browns were one of the teams reportedly in contact with free-agent EDGE rusher Jadeveon Clowney, but they might also have their eyes on another pass-rushing star.
The Browns are popping up in the rumor mill as one of the suitors for Jacksonville Jaguars end Yannick Ngakoue, who has demanded a trade after the Jags assigned the franchise tag to his name prior to the deadline (via Jeff Rison of USA TODAY):
It seems far-fetched and quite speculative, but one major sports outlet has mentioned the Cleveland Browns as one of the potential landing spots for standout Jacksonville Jaguars EDGE Yannick Ngakoue.
CBS Sports notes that ESPN’s Adam Schefter listed the Browns as one of the potential suitors for Ngakoue. who has demanded a trade from the Jaguars. Cleveland certainly makes some sense from a need standpoint, and the Browns do have the immediate salary cap room needed to absorb Ngakoue’s franchise tag figure of over $18 million.
The 25-year-old has registered at least 8.0 sacks in each of his first four seasons in the NFL.
Last year, Ngakoue had 8.0 sacks and a whopping four forced fumbles, adding an interception return for a touchdown for good measure.
The Browns would be wise to throw their hat in the ring for Ngakoue, although the Jaguars reportedly want a first-round pick and more in exchange. However, the Browns might roll the dice on a future first if they feel they can be more competitive in 2020.
New general manager Andrew Barry has made a number of moves on the offensive side of the football, signing tackle Jack Conklin and tight end Austin Hooper.
But the Browns have yet to acquire an impact defender in spite of their defense ranking 22nd in terms of DVOA last year. This might make acquiring Ngakoue that much more attractive.
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