Browns Pursue Elite LT Walker, Freeing Draft Flexibility

0:00On March 13, the Cleveland Browns are pouring most of their free agency budget into rebuilding their offensive line after six of seven key starters, hit free agency following last season. They've already agreed to terms with Guard Zion Johnson and center Elton Jenkins who got cut by the Green Bay Packers to save cap space. The team also traded for Houston Texans tackle Titus Howard and brought back Teven Jenkins from last year. This move feels four out of five spots, leaving last season's opening day left tackle Dawan Jones as the holdover. Jones only played two games, plus a handful of snaps before a season ending injury sidelineed him. Many Browns fans dismissed the idea of chasing top free agent left tackle Rashid Walker because of his projected $20 million plus annual. Salary? That high price tag made it seem out of reach early in free agency. Now reports say the market for elite left tackles dried up fast with few teams in the mix like Cleveland and Detroit.

1:00Walker could settle for a one year proven deal to boost his value next off season. Landing him on those terms would give the Browns huge draft flexibility at pick number six, letting them grab the best player available or trade down without forcing a tackle. It fits their tight cap perfectly, especially with big money coming off the books after the next season, setting up a potential long term fit if he shines.