Browns Lock Up Safety Hickman, Strengthen Defense

0:00On March 7th, the Cleveland Browns are wasting no time locking up key defensive players. They plan to slap a second-round restricted tender on safety Ronnie Hickman, worth $5.8 million. This move shows they see him as a cornerstone starter under new defensive coordinator, Mike Rootenberg. Hickman started as an undrafted free agent from Ohio State back in 2023. Last season he posted 107 tackles, two interceptions, and seven pass breakups while holding down the free safety spot full time. Fans and analysts like this step because it pairs Hickman with veteran strong safety, Grant Delpid for a solid duo. It also means the Browns probably skip chasing free agent safeties or drafting Ohio State's Caleb Downs at number 6 overall. Looking ahead, Cleveland wants to bring back linebacker Devon Bush after his strong back-to-back years. Their defensive line looks solid with Alex Wright's extension opposite Miles Garrett, though they might add cornerback depth, especially at Nickel.

1:02With Hickman set to return, General Manager Andrew Berry can focus on patching the offensive line and wide receivers in free agency, building a balanced roster for next season.