03-14-2018, 04:50 PM
(03-13-2018, 06:49 PM)Vambo Wrote: Cleveland Browns' 2018 free agency: Versatile Chris Smith provides DL depth
http://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/271292/cleveland-browns-2018-free-agency-versatile-chris-smith-provides-dl-depth
A breakdown of the Cleveland Browns' 2018 free-agent signings.
Chris Smith, defensive lineman
The Browns agreed to sign defensive lineman Chris Smith, who played last season with the Cincinnati Bengals. Here's a closer look at the signing:
Grade: C-plus. Smith fits in the Browns rotation of defensive linemen, and fits with defensive coordinator Gregg Williams' desire to find active tackles in the 4-3. He can play inside or out and had three sacks last season. He's a nice player and a hard worker, but he's always been used as a backup and last season was the first he played 16 games.
What it means: The Browns need depth on the defensive front and Smith can play tackle or end. At 266 pounds, he's undersized to play the run, but can be effective in pass-rush packages. He seems to be improving, as he had career highs in games played (16), sacks (three) and tackles (17) in Cincinnati last season after being traded from Jacksonville. The Browns can use him inside or out, but with the trade of Danny Shelton, the Browns needed depth on the defensive front. Smith gives them that. The Browns also will give Smith a three-year deal worth $14 million, which shows they feel good about him.
What's the risk: Hard to see a huge risk here. Smith is a nice and improving player who can fit into defensive packages designed by Willliams. Aaron Donald he's not; the Browns are getting a guy who played about 30 percent of the Bengals' defensive snaps. This is a signing based on scouting and based on the belief that the Browns are getting an improving player with potential.
Tyrod Taylor
Jarvis Landry
Carlos Hyde
Terrance Mitchell
T.J. Carrie
Jarvis Landry
Damarious Randall
Chris Hubbard
Chris Smith
Donald Stephenson
Darren Fells
The Browns have officially brought in half of a full 22-man unit this offseason thus far and the draft has yet to begin.
https://twitter.com/H_Grove/status/974007050316300288
