Chiefs' WR headlines potential Browns free-agent additions
Free agency begins March 15 at 4 p.m. ET.
Positional needs for Cleveland Browns: DT, WR, DE
The Browns disappointed in 2022, finishing 7-10 after acquiring franchise QB Deshaun Watson last offseason. Cleveland must make splashy moves to contend in the AFC North.
Daron Payne, DT, Washington Commanders
Signing Payne to a multi-year deal could solidify a longtime weakness. The 25-year-old is coming off the best season of his career with 64 tackles, 11.5 sacks.
Pro Football Focus ranks Payne as the No. 11 free agent of 2023, calling him "a problem for interior offensive linemen trying to keep their quarterback upright."
Philadelphia's Javon Hargrave is the only DT ranked higher than Payne on PFF's Big Board. Payne, however, is five years younger. He is projected to receive a five-year, $97.46 million contract, per Spotrac.
Mecole Hardman, WR, Kansas City Chiefs
Cleveland must give Watson another weapon to complement wide receivers Amari Cooper and Donovan Peoples-Jones. Hardman could be the perfect slot receiver.
The 24-year-old has dealt with a lingering pelvic injury and had only 25 receptions for 297 yards and four touchdowns during the regular season.
Hardman is estimated to receive a four-year, $44.14 million contract, according to Spotrac.
Charles Omenihu, DE, San Francisco 49ers
Defensive end Jadeveon Clowney burned bridges with the Browns, necessitating an addition at the position.
With Clowney's departure, Omenihu could get his shot as an every-week starter with the Browns. More of a rotational player now, the 25-year-old had a strong 2022 regular season, posting 20 tackles, 4.5 sacks and one forced fumble.
Omenihu is the 41st-ranked free agent in 2023 by PFF, which wrote he "brings versatility along the defensive line with his 6-foot-5, 280-pound frame."
With a lack of starting experience, Omenihu could come at a reasonable price.
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