With a new coaching staff and restructured front office, the Cleveland Browns look to set the tone in 2014. Yesterday afternoon, the Browns released fan favorite and defensive captain, D’Qwell Jackson. ESPN Cleveland’s Tony Grossi wrote an article about other cuts that may happen soon. Well, here are my thoughts on the future personnel of the orange-and-brown.
Like many seasons before, Cleveland fans will see a roster change in 2014. The Browns have ten draft picks and over 46 million in cap space. According to the team’s website, there are 73 players on the total rosters. This includes the reserve/future (practice squad), injured reserve, reserve/non-football illness and non-football injuries.
Here is a list of players that this writer believes will not be on the Cleveland Browns in any capacity this upcoming season.
QB Jason Campbell: Does his veteran presence and a 1-7 record as a starter last season merit his return in 2014?
WR Josh Cooper: While Cooper showed signs of being a possession receiver, the draft, return of Travis Benjamin, and free agency may put an end to his time in Cleveland.
OL Oneil Cousins: The six-year veteran just hasn’t broken through as a solid spot-starter or reserve.
K Billy Cundiff: While he was serviceable last season, it may be time to get a young kicker or give Brandon Bogotay a try.
OL Shawn Lauvao: He has never lived up to the 92nd overall pick in 2010.
WR Greg Little: Not even his late 2012 epiphany meeting with Alonzo Mourning could help him last season.
RB Willis McGahee: Brought in off his couch at home to fill a dire need, McGahee gained just 2.7 yards per carry and scored twice in his short Browns career.
RB Chris Ogbonnaya: His move to fullback was a bad one last year and Edwin Baker deserves a shot.
DL Ahytyba Rubin: This is tough one. The former sixth round pick may not fit the new coach’s scheme and his presence did decline a little in 2013. Maybe a trade though?
QB Brandon Weeden: He wants out and so it shall be. Thank you for your 26 career INTs and 366 yards lost in sacks.
LB Quentin Groves: On the fence with him. An injury slowed his season down, not sure he fits Mike Pettine‘s defense.
WR Davone Bess: From one of the most consistent receivers in the game to tweeting and Instagram-ing his way off the team. Only in Cleveland.
LB Tank Carder: His special teams play is decent, but there is better talent out there.
LB Craig Robertson: At times, he played really well. Others, not so much (especially in pass coverage). He will test free agency market.
OG John Greco: The Toledo, OH native is not the mauling guard the Browns want next to Joe Thomas.
S TJ Ward & C Alex Mack: The Browns may sign one of them, but not both. Which one-remains to be seen.
WR Brian Tyms: Caught two passes in seven games.
RB Fozzy Whittaker: A fan favorite will be shown the door in 2014. Baker may have something to do with it and Dion Lewis returns in 2014.
All of these players received significant playing time last year. If the Browns lose all 19 of these players, that is 36% of the 53-man roster. Get ready, a roster turnover is coming.
Ryan Ruiz is the Cleveland Browns Beat Writer for The Inscriber: Digital Magazine. You can follow him on Facebook: Ryan (BrownsWriter) Ruiz and Twitter @ryanpruiz24. Ryan is also a Browns correspondent for The Sportsfix. Tune in every Friday at noon on www.thesportsfix.net. Email Ryan at ryan.ruiz@theinscribermag.com
