Browns 2024 free agency tracker: Offseason moves, signings
Here’s a breakdown of every 2024 NFL free agent signing by the Cleveland Browns and how each will impact the upcoming season:
Smith agreed to a two-year deal to return to the Browns on Monday.
What it means: Smith played a key role on a Cleveland defense that ranked No. 1 in the league during the regular season. He returns to anchor the end spot opposite NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett. Smith’s power and versatility allowed the Browns to frequently deploy three defensive ends alongside defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson. The Browns were at their best in these sets, especially on third down, as Cleveland led the league in three-and-out stop rate. Smith only had 5.5 sacks last year. But he was durable, appearing in 16 games.
What’s the risk: Smith didn’t have many flashy plays last year, and now will be entering his age 32 season. He did have a pass rush win rate of 22.1%, which ranked 17th in the league among edge defenders, suggesting sacks didn’t tell the story of his impact. But this deal feels similar to one the Browns gave Jadeveon Clowney after a banner 2021 season on a one-year deal. Clowney re-signed but couldn’t replicate his production and grew disenchanted. Smith was a welcomed locker room presence last year. But the Browns are banking that with this deal, Smith can bridge the gap until one of Cleveland’s younger ends, like Alex Wright, can grow into a legit No. 2 pass rusher.
The former Viking is signing a two-year, $8 million deal with the Browns, a source tells Adam Schefter.
What it means: Hicks, who played his high school ball in Ohio (Lakota West), comes back to the Buckeye State to replace Anthony Walker Jr. as Cleveland’s veteran inside linebacker (Walker signed with the Miami Dolphins). Hicks has had 100-plus tackles in five straight seasons playing for the Arizona Cardinals and Vikings. Presumably, he will fill the leadership role that Walker did inside the Cleveland locker room, too. Walker had repeatedly been voted a captain in Cleveland. It wouldn’t be a surprise for Hicks, who was a captain in Minnesota, to earn that title with the Browns.
What’s the risk: Hicks will be 32 this summer. He played in every regular-season game over four seasons before suffering compartment syndrome (a freak buildup of pressure in the muscles caused by internal bleeding or swollen tissue) of the leg. Hicks had to undergo emergency surgery and missed four games. Like the Browns were at the beginning of Walker’s tenure, they will be heavily reliant on Hicks, especially with Walker’s 2023 backup, Sione Takitaki, leaving for the New England Patriots.
Hurst is returning to the team on a one-year deal.
What it means: After arriving on a one-year deal last offseason, Hurst became a key rotation player on the interior of the defensive line. Splitting time with Jordan Elliott and starter Dalvin Tomlinson, Hurst finished with 22 tackles, including four for loss. He also had one of the defensive plays of the year for the Browns, tipping a pass before diving for the interception on Oct. 29 against the Seattle Seahawks. With rookie DT Siaki Ika failing to make an impact last season, re-signing a proven player like Hurst became a priority.
What’s the risk: Hurst has battled injuries throughout his career and then he suffered a season-ending pectoral injury in December. Before last season, Hurst had played in only 13 games from 2020-2022 due to injuries. Now, he’s coming off another and will be depended on even more than he was going into last season.